Patrick is an advocate for the disabled

POLOKWANE – A car accident 26 years ago left Patrick Tshia (54) with only one arm and even though it makes life a little more difficult, he says he lives a normal life.

The husband, father of three and grandfather of one worked as a branch manager at a furniture store at the time of the accident.

He currently works at the Polokwane Municipality as a coordinator for people with disabilities and assists in organising events to help raise awareness.

“I also assist with device procurement. I come across many challenges at work and we do not have enough money to help those that need help. People with disabilities struggle to find work. Employers always see what extra they will need to accommodate the disabled person and they are therefore employees are reluctant to recruit them.”

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Patrick says most people with disabilities do not have homes and even though they want to be independent and not live with family, it is nearly impossible to get one.

“We have managed to get a few RDP houses. But there is no water and electricity.”

As for his workplace, Patrick says there are a few obstacles faced such as when the elevator isn’t working because those that cannot use the stairs are stuck.

“We are in the process of getting all of this right. We have ramps that make the entrance more accessible.”

Apart from being busy at work, Patrick is also the chairperson of the governing board of The Association of People with Disabilities (APD).

“We struggled with finances after Covid-19 and we often fall short as our regular doners are unable to donate as usual. We get money from government but even they have cut their budgets. We need volunteers to help us. If we can get more income, we can do something to get money. Donations and non-perishable food will be welcome,” he said.

Patrick says they also use the APD conference hall to rent out and sell bottled water to raise money.