In 2011, things took a huge turn for Phangisile Zwane (53) who was diagnosed with diabetes which led to her lower right leg being amputated.
The disease severely affected her right lower leg after she had noticed a tiny open sore on a toe on her right foot. Without realising the severity of the problem she was informed that her lower right leg needed to be amputated to protect the rest of her body.
This meant her ability to put bread on the table was taken away from her, as she had worked as a domestic worker before her disability.
“Before this I used to work in Brackendowns and I relied on that money for a living. I now live off my disability grant. I would really appreciate assistance with an artificial leg. At least that way I would be able to move around or go back to work,” said Phangisile.
Apart from the artificial leg, she told the RECORD that she would also be highly grateful to receive a wheelchair to replace her current one.
“A wheelchair would also be of great help because I can barely use crutches to walk. My wheelchairs never last long because of my body weight. They last for at least six years, at times for a year depending on how strong it is,” she said.
Her disability
Being disabled has come with challenges. The mother of two, whose children live out of town, does her own household chores and has struggled for many years with using taxis.
She has since been a strong believer, who would never miss a Sunday of going to church. But Phangisile’s church visits were cut short back in 2018.
“I had to quit going to church because I didn’t want to be a burden on people since I would ask to be fetched and all I do now is sit all day. At times when I have short trips I would need to request an Uber, which is totally out of my budget,” she said.
Should you wish to assist Phangisile in getting an artificial leg or a wheelchair, contact her on 063 378 9080 or 078 873 5468.
