Thando Mtshiliba, 6, was excited when he got into a school for children with special needs, but now he has to overcome another obstacle.
Thando is a mentally and physically disabled boy from Simunye. The Herald reported on 24 August 2018 that Xolisa Ntsepo from the Rand West City Local Municipality’s disability desk helped Thando’s grandmother, Alina Mtshiliba by organising his placement at a local daycare centre that could cater to all his needs.
“He got placed in the Rainbow Daycare Centre in Randfontein and they were wonderful with him. I saw so much change in the few days that he went to this school but then the transport became a problem.
“Rainbow’s bus doesn’t come to Simunye so he used a taxi for a while, but he fell out of his car seat and lost two of his teeth on his way to school,” Alina said.
“He has been staying home since then and he will turn seven in two months’ time. He needs to go to a school where he can learn and get physiotherapy, but I have not given up hope yet. I’m hoping that we can find a boarding school for disabled children. He deserves better than to be placed in a home where he won’t learn anything.”
The 49-year-old Alina has been caring for Thando while his mother, Khethiwe, 24, studies to become a paramedic. Alina was excited about finding a job once Thando started school but now she has to spend all her time taking care of him.
“I love this little boy so much and I just want what’s best for him. This is his home and it will always be a place where he is welcomed and loved, but he needs professional care.”
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