Runner-up of Mr Deaf South Africa, Mr Tim Stones, recently took part in a 48-hour charity run to raise funds for a cochlear implant operation for a young child.
Tim, who completed his 48-hour race alongside other runners at the Running Festival Johannesburg on December 17, last year.
During the run, Tim ran 187 laps of the 1006 metre circuit at the Modderfontein Sports grounds – adding up to total of 188 kilometres.
When Tim heard about the fundraising campaign late last year, he decided he needed to get involved and help the child.
“I thought it would be a good way to help someone in need, by doing something I enjoy,” said Tim.
Before the race, Tim posted on social media that he was both excited and nervous about the event.
Mrs Stella Venter, mother of two-year-old RW, said the family appreciates the help.
“It’s very nice of Tim; we’re humbled and honoured. The world needs more Tim Stones,” said Stella.
Mrs Venter said her son has had hearing problems since he was born.
She said that both his cochlears didn’t develop fully.
“At the moment, RW can only hear high frequency sounds.”
She said currently he has partial hearing with the aid of a hearing device – which assists the hearing in both ears.
“The hearing aid not only helps him hear a little bit, but will also get him used to the implant,” said Stella
Mrs Venter said with the implant to the right cochlear, her son’s hearing will improve and so will his speech development.
According to Mrs Venter, the procedure will cost R385 000.
Tim said the hardest part of the running, wasn’t the physical aspect but rather the mental side.
He said doing enough training before the event, had prepared him sufficiently.
“The toughest part was the mental side of it. Trying to keep focussed with the sleep deprivation taking its toll on you, was a challenge,” he said.
Mr Christopher Stones, Tim’s father, said that he was proud of his son for accomplishing the task.
“I would help Tim by motivating him, give him water when he needed it – and attending to the blisters which he sustained while running,” said Christopher.
Miss, Mr and Mrs Deaf South Africa (MMMDSA) marketing and media manager Ms Esmerelda Reid, said MMMDSA was honoured to have a competitor from the competition, doing the fundraising.
She said through the efforts of MMMDSA, Tim Stones and Tim’s parents, R1480 has been raised for the operation.
