A little act of kindness and giving is providing a young man with the gift of sight.
13-year-old Bonolo Molemohi from Holy Rosary School in Edenvale raised R36 000 for Philani Thwala, who needed a cornea transplant.
Bonolo is a member of the Johannesburg Mini Council, a media committee member, choir captain, an aspiring pianist and more recently, the recipient of the Lead SA Youth Hero for October award.
Speaking to the NEWS, Bonolo explained her wish to help Philani see again.
“I wanted to help him see the beautiful world around him again,” said Bonolo.
She heard about Philani’s situation from her mother, who told her Philane’s family was unable to pay for the transplant. Bonolo immediately initiated fundraising activities.
She made several sacrifices during her mission to achieve her goal of raising R36 000.
“I decided not to have a birthday party and donated the money towards Philane’s operation. It was not easy but because I really wanted him to see again I felt it was the right thing to do. I also asked my friends, school and family members to get involved in the project.
“I donated my old toys and encouraged my friends to do the same to sell the toys and collect funds,” said Bonolo.
Her mother, Mrs Nomfundo Molemoh, was not surprised when Bonolo told her she wanted to help Philane.
“She has always been a child who is eager to help. In grade 3, Bonolo helped her classmate improve her school marks. The friend was not coping with her school work and Bonolo asked me to call the child’s parents and ask for permission for their daughter to come to our house in the afternoons when Bonolo helped her with her school work. The parents appreciated the offer and allowed their daughter to come home with Bonolo. This helped Bonolo’s classmate improve her school grades and contributed to building her confidence. Bonolo is very committed to her projects,” said Mrs Molemohi.
Philani’s first operation took place on August 29 at the St Johns Eye Hospital. The second and final transplant operation is planned for early 2016.
“I’m happy that Philane will soon be able to do the things he wanted to do for 10 years, but could not. I’m happy I was able to help someone in need. I didn’t expect anything but I did feel special when I was told I am October’s Lead SA Youth Hero,” said Bonolo.
#YourStory
