Daniël was born with muscular dystrophy, which means that his muscles are too weak to stand and walk. She raised money for the much-needed hydraulic patient lifter. She was planning to raise the funds through her upcoming Karkloof 100 Miler (160km). However, the generous people of Hoedspruit donated the funds even before she could run.
“Most recently we were able to procure the much-needed hydraulic hoist for Daniël through an anonymous donation. We are so incredibly grateful. Our little man’s joy is captured in his smile,” she said.
Belinda said she will go on with the Karkloof 100 Miler as planned because funds are still needed to support Daniël. The two-day trail run is scheduled to take place from September 24 to 26. This will be the longest distance she has ever run. “I will be running to raise funds for the next item on Daniël’s ever-developing list of accessories, which is a special wheelchair pillow that will assist to correct his sitting posture. We discovered only recently that he has already developed scoliosis,” she said.
Also read: Spend a year with little Daniël Otto
Belinda said an intervention programme has already been started, but he also needs the Vicair Vector 02 wheelchair pillow to optimise the programme and correct scoliosis. “The cost for this wheelchair pillow is R11 000. Any amount you would like to contribute towards Daniël’s wheelchair pillow is welcomed,” she said. Young Daniël requires physiotherapy, neurophysiotherapy, orthotics and has to visit a pediatric neurologist, pediatric cardiologist and pediatric pulmonologist.
He also requires AC therapy (play therapy) and special needs assistance which adds up to about R100 000 every year. In May this year, Belinda solely ran the 80km Mac Mac Ultra trail run between Sabie, Pilgrims Rest and Graskop to contribute to Daniel’s Lion Heart Challenge.
During the Mac Mac Ultra, Belinda challenged the community of Hoedspruit to contribute by sponsoring her per kilometer, she raised over R90 000. She was supported by her family and a support team. To get involved in raising funds for Daniël call Belinda on 076 479 8906.
