Muzi Fodo achieves wheelchair mission from Harding to Amanzimtoti
The ‘Diffabled, Not Disabled’ mission aimed to promote dignity, inclusivity and mobility for all.
An activist for the disabled community, Muzi Fodo was welcomed to Scottburgh last Wednesday, while on his 190km journey from Harding to Durban (Amanzimtoti).
He embarked on his ‘Diffabled, Not Disabled’ mission to promote dignity, inclusivity and mobility for all, and to fund active wheelchairs for those in need.
Muzi was expected to reach the Blue Marlin Resort in Scottburgh around 17:30 that afternoon, but due to the heavy rain on the South Coast and a problem with one of the wheels on his wheelchair, he had a bit of a delay.
In the interim, supporters waited in anticipation to spot the dedicated activist and cheer him on. Sue Martin, a resident of Renishaw Hills, spearheaded the support with the help of local councillor Dana Daniels.
Those who were able to withstand the weather and wait for his arrival were able to meet Muzi at the Park Rynie off-ramp at about 20:30. From there, he still had roughly 6km to go to the Blue Marlin Hotel, exhausted, but still smiling.
After reaching the resort and being generously treated to a hot meal, Muzi was accommodated at Renishaw Hills before making tracks the next morning.
The Renishaw team felt honoured to host Muzi and his team for the evening, and said that his journey was a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the impact a supportive community can have.
Sue Martin echoed similar sentiments and said that being in a wheelchair herself, it was so admirable to see a fellow diffabled person do something, rather than just sit.
“We didn’t die, so God knows we still have much to offer. I collect bread tags and bottle tops on behalf of Sweethearts Foundation for specialised wheelchairs, which is the same result as Muzi, just less strenuous,” she explained.
“Being given a wheelchair changes not only the person in need’s life, but their family, friends and community. Muzi is a special child of God and needs to be supported!”
Muzi completed his mission when he reached Amanzimtoti main beach last Thursday afternoon.
He was cheered on by the locals. He thanks every person who supported him or sponsored the journey in any way possible.
He said while the first leg from Harding to Paddock had been tiring, he picked up momentum in the second leg from Paddock to Port Shepstone, with lots of support along the way.
“People have already pledged to donate a num
ber of wheelchairs, so we’re on target. We hope to raise enough to buy 50 wheelchairs.”
“This is not just for me, but for every diffabled person who deserves opportunity and respect.”
Muzi was involved in a vehicle accident in 2013 which left him paralysed, but he refused to let his disability define him.
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