Scott Money, who recently matriculated at St Stithians Boys’ College, refused to allow his cerebral palsy to stand in the way of his future.
This disease meant that he spent most of his life, and all of his high school career, in a wheelchair. The muscles in his hands pulled his fingers back, making it difficult for him to write or type. However, none of this deterred this cheerful youngster.
Money describes himself as a ‘normal dude, only difference is that I am always sitting down’. He stressed that it is important to acknowledge the kindness and efforts of a few of his teachers, who made his school career so memorable. He highlighted, “My English teacher, Bridget Webster, was always there for me. I have always loved reading and writing and I would chat to her about books. I was lucky enough to have her as a teacher from Grade 10 up until matric.”
Poetry forms an important part of his life and he uses his writing to express himself. “I have loved poetry for about 10 years and used it as a way to explain the things that were held up inside of me.” One of his fondest memories of Webster was the fact that she would read his poetry and give him her opinion. He valued her input and loved that she would read his work.
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Another one of his teachers that he wanted to thank was his biology teacher, Anne Bredenkamp. “She always looked after me from Grade 8 and she has been like a second mother to me. We developed a really good relationship.”
Like most teenagers, Money faced many hurdles during his high school years and said that it was his caring friends who helped him pull through. “They [my friends] were always there for me and they helped me laugh when I was feeling down.”
Money is not only a courageous academic but also a passionate gamer. He explained that his mother had a tough time motivating him during his examinations as he loves sitting in front of his computer playing games. He also loves music and the spoken word and was involved in his school choir and public speaking team.
He concluded, “I would like to thank my mom for cracking the whip, as I can often be lazy. She made sure that I studied and do not get distracted. She is the one who always helped me pull through.”
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