Facing the reality of chronic illness is daunting. More so when support dwindles and emotions are at an all-time high.

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This is why community support groups are essential, not only for a helpful hand when times get tough, but also to share experiences and inspire others through testimonies.

To re-enforce this, a Support Group meeting was held at the side hall of the Estcourt Town Hall on Saturday at 2pm.
Despite the poor attendance, there was a lot to be learnt.

Community volunteer Ramika Peerbhay welcomed everyone and began the meeting with a prayer. A moment of silence was observed for survivors who died recently. Reflection on the past year followed with Mrs Peerbhay speaking on survivors’ emphasising that four meetings should be held each year.

She said that often people may be dissuaded from attending the support group meetings, fearing they may have to divulge the reasons for their attendance or details of their illness.

“You don’t have to talk, just listen. The best way to heal is to attend meetings where you can listen to others and we always walk away from the meetings knowing that we learnt a lot,” said Mrs Peerbhay.

Guest speakers for the day were Mammy and her husband Prakash Maharaj. The family was faced with a tragedy when Mr Maharaj suffered serious injuries to his brain after an explosion at his place at work, 17 years ago.

Mr Maharaj’s ability to move was seriously hampered and his wife had to cater for his every need.

“There were times when I would tie him to my back with a bed sheet to move him around,” said Mrs Maharaj.

She said that with time and support from immediate family, caring for Mr Maharaj has become a blessing because the family got to bond and spend more time with each other. The couple says that having faith in God is most healing.

Speaking about support from the community, Mrs Maharaj says it was difficult to see those who visited often before the accident suddenly stay away but she is not bitter and offers her support to people who find themselves in similar situations. All those present applauded Mrs Maharaj’s caregiving efforts during the 17 years.

The meeting concluded with refreshments before a thunderstorm burst through the clouds.

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