A run for children with disabilities

On 5 November, the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in South Africa will host its annual Nappy Run.

The event is to promote the cause of children with disabilities and to help with one of their most basic needs, which is… nappies.

Director of the organisation, Therina Wentzel said incontinence and a lack of bladder and bowel control was associated with various types of disabilities and children with disabilities have a disproportionately high need for nappies. The nappies are needed up to an advanced age, often into their teens and even adult years.

Wentzel stated, “Having to go without nappies violates a child’s dignity; it is degrading, causes discomfort and is also unhygienic,” she said.

With this in mind, the organisation founded Nappy Run six years ago and has been running the campaign every year. Sponsored by Marsh since 2014, the event has shown significant growth with more interest and participation every year.

Gauteng residents are requested to help raise awareness and nappies by taking part in the 5km fun walk/run at the Johannesburg Zoo in Parktown. Entry into the fun walk is R90 for adults and R45 for children 4–12 years old. Children younger than four years old enter free of charge and families can enjoy the zoo after the event. Registration begins at 7.30am until 8.30am and the run will start at 9am.

“We are calling on everyone in Johannesburg to walk/run the 5km for the empowerment of children with disabilities, join in and accessorise, using a cloth nappy to follow the theme,” added Wentzel.

Last year, the campaign raised 25 000 nappies, which were distributed to families and care centres for children with disabilities throughout South Africa and this year they are aiming for 50 000 nappies. Physical donations of nappy packs will be welcome or, alternatively, donate Nappy Rands on the website www.nappyrun.org.za

All funds raised through this campaign will go towards nappies for the campaign’s beneficiaries.

Details: Tickets to the event can be purchased online at www.nappyrun.org.za or during registration on the morning of the event.