Visually impaired boy (9) receives special tricycle

A visually-impaired nine-year-old boy from Menlopark got the surprise of a lifetime when he was given a custom-made tricycle as a present last week.

Moarale Moloisone (9) has been visually impaired since he was eight months old, according to his mother.

The plan to surprise Moarale with a tricycle was hatched by his teacher at his Prinshof School for the Partially Sighted and Blind in the Pretoria CBD and his mother.

Hentjie Nortjie, who contributed to the trike, said it all began when Moarale told his mother he was interested in riding a bicycle.

“This was discussed with his teacher, who encouraged the exercise.”

Nortjie said his wife, who is friends with and a colleague of Moarale’s mother, heard about the boy’s interest.

“My wife works with his mother at a local pharmacy and through their regular conversations, she would continually bring up their talks at home.”

Also read: VIDEO: Visually impaired, blind and disabled ‘tired of handouts’

Nortjie said he knew exactly who to approach as he is also visually impaired.

“I called the bike shop where we book regular services.”

He said the bicycle mechanic was briefed and built a trike with reflectors, brakes, bar sponges for safety and a bell to warn pedestrians.

“Being visually impaired is tough. As a little boy, this bicycle might encourage independence and strengthening of bones.

“We need to look after our children and disabled society. As a nation, we fail to build proper infrastructure for the disabled.”

He encouraged parents to envision a different future for their disabled children.

“Visually impaired children should be taught how to explore their world.”

Mother Cathy Moloisone said she had no idea when Moarale became interested in bike riding, but said Moarale had been nagging for a bicycle since last year.

“A few days before his birthday, when I asked him what he wanted, he said a bicycle. He never really explained where that urge came from, he just said he would really like one.

“We asked him how he is going to ride a bicycle given he can’t see like other kids? He then said he will figure it out.”

She said friends and colleagues all chipped in for the tricycle.

Cathy said the tricycle and its special safety features were outstanding.

“It has not been an easy journey and we are still trying to figure out various challenges; however, he is enjoying life.”

Cathy said Moarale can now enjoy rides at a park or their yard, where it was safe for him.

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