Heuwelkruin awards Gr 12 learner Mpho with Guts award
Mpho Malete, who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, said he was surprised by the award and did not know the impact he had on others.
POLOKWANE – Every year, one Gr 12 learner from Curro Heuwelkruin is awarded the Kruinie Guts award.
This award goes to the learner who, despite his or her physical disabilities, persevered through a very challenging school career, always positive and always smiling.
This year the award went to Mpho Malete who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at the age of 10.
This means he struggles to walk and needs help from friends, especially when going up or down stairs.
“I was surprised at first when I heard I had won the award, mainly because I did not notice how people really see me, and the impact I have on others. I felt overwhelmed with emotions to the point that I did not know what to do and how to react, but other than that, I was proud of myself.”
After his primary school teacher noticed a sudden change in Mpho’s movements and advised his mom to take him for tests, the diagnosis was made.
“Duchenne muscular dystrophy does not solely affect my legs, but most of my body. It is a mystery, even to medical professionals, since I was born healthy with no complications. I took some medication for a few years, but I rapidly gained weight and slowly lost my ability to play soccer. This affected me mentally and made me lose confidence in myself. I decided to stop the medication because I felt the condition should not define me.
“It got better briefly, and I could continue to play soccer, until it got worse after several minor injuries. Today, I need more assistance when it comes to climbing stairs or standing up from a chair or sometimes, even from my bed.”
Mpho says he does not necessarily describe himself as someone who has more guts that another person. “I think the people who have a lot of guts are those who do not let their problems define who they are, as well as those who show their relentless ability to show courage, despite what they go through. I believe that I am that type of person, it is just in my character.”
Always smiling and visibly positive, Mpho feels one of the reasons behind his positivity is his faith that God brought him here for a purpose.
“I just try not to think about my condition too much. The support of my family, teachers and friends helps me remain positive, they have impacted me in a positive way, especially the support from my mother and father. I also try to remind myself frequently, that nothing comes easy and that I need to stand strong. Doctors told me that I would be in a wheelchair by the age of 17. I am now 18 and it looks unlikely to happen soon, all because of God’s grace.”
Mpho realised he needed to impact more people and live his life to the fullest.
“In the end, we are all fighting our own battles, spiritually, mentally and physically. My advice is that we need to be trailblazers and that nothing, no condition, can stop you from achieving your dream.”
When Mpho received his award, the boys around him at the table stood up, clapping hands and cheering him on. For these friends of his, Mpho is truly grateful as, despite his struggles they are always there, patiently waiting to help.
“Sometimes, despite being positive, I feel like I am a burden to others, as I am constantly in need of help. Next year I plan to study sound engineering in Johannesburg. I also want to continue to make my own music, which is something I have loved since I was young,” he related his dream.
Read more about the awards and winners, at www.reviewonline.co.za.
