Boy (16) with rare disorder turns magistrate for a day

Not everyone gets to live their dreams yet 16-year-old Leon Maseko begs to differ.

Thanks to the Reach For A Dream Foundation and Van Wyk Oosthuizen Attorneys, the youngster living with a rare blood disease called Hemophilia, recently had the opportunity to visit a magistrate’s court, wear an actual robe and slam the gavel. He was diagnosed at seven months old and has also experienced liver failure.

Leon’s dream of visiting an actual courtroom became a reality on February 21 when Van Wyk Oosthuizen Attorneys invited him to their offices. Being a lawyer is after all what he aspires to be one day and on that particular Wednesday, Leon was given a robe to wear and insight into the profession.

Furthermore, attorney Bets Carew welcomed the young man with open arms and asked him about his goals for the future. Thereafter, Bets gave Leon a gift package filled with a laser, keychain, T-shirt, socks and sweets. Bets then invited Leon to the Randfontein Magistrate’s Court where he roamed the halls. He also had the opportunity to explore the civil court and even be a magistrate for a short while. After Leon was introduced to the courts, Bets handed Leon something that had been on his wish list for some time, a PlayStation 4.

Leon’s mother, Nokuthula, expressed her gratitude.

“It is always a mother’s fear for her child to get injured. With Leon in this delicate condition, it is a constant worry. His older brother was also diagnosed with Haemophilia and passed away a while ago after internal bleeding in the stomach,” Nokuthula stated.

Leon explained, “If I get injured somewhere, it immediately swells and I have to go to hospital. I try to stay away from all things dangerous but it is not always easy. I cannot compare myself to other children.”

Van Wyk Oosthuizen Attorneys wrote the following letter to Leon which brought him tears.

“Always remember that some days will be harder than others but never give up. At a very young age, you had to learn to fight for your life. You are a superhero. Always follow your dreams even if they seem far. With your patience and hard work we know you will achieve it. If people say that you cannot do it, prove them wrong. May the heavenly Father be with you every step of your way to guide you.”

Leon enjoys History and English as subjects and is also an avid Orlando Pirates supporter.