Simphiwe’s blast birthday

IT was not just an ordinary birthday when Simphiwe Linda turned 13 years old on Saturday, May 28 and his idols Dreamteam and Mduduzi Mabaso (Suffocate from e.tv’s ‘Rhythm City’) were also present at a surprise party hosted by Gold Reef City.

His father, George, sister Memory and 24 classmates celebrated with him. They enjoyed a movie, tenpin bowling and arcade games at the Magic Company, followed by lunch at the Golden Falcon Spur. Simphiwe was delighted to receive a Spider-Man-themed cake. The highlight of the day was a special treat from Capital Air – a Jozi and Soweto heli flip!

Simphiwe, who wants to be a businessman after completing school, is a typical teenage boy who dreams of being just like his superhero, Spider-Man. He loves soccer, with his favourite team being Mamelodi Sundowns, enjoys gaming and his current favourite song is ‘Rainbow’ by Black Motion.

In November 2015, he was caught in the crossfire of a shootout near his home in Rosettenville and was hit by a stray bullet which resulted in him losing the use of both his legs.

A month later, 947 Breakfast Xpress presenter Darren Simpson responded to a Christmas Wish which was sent to the popular radio station on behalf of Simphiwe by one of his classmates.

Through the Christmas Wish initiative, 947 and Gold Reef City came to the assistance of both Simphiwe and his family. Simphiwe received R5 000 in Pick n Pay vouchers to help celebrate the festive season and R3 000 every month for a year to support the family with living expenses. Following the shooting, the family was evicted. To help the family back on their feet, Gold Reef City assisted in finding a new home and have even installed ramps and bars to help mobilise Simphiwe around the house and employed his father George as a security officer.

Regarding his birthday, Simphiwe said, “My 13th birthday was one of the most amazing days of my life and I had the best time with all my friends and family. My favourite part of the day was when I met Dreamteam and Suffocate (Mduduzi Mabaso), I can’t say thank you enough.”

Simphiwe was also delighted to receive a Sony PSP and the ‘Key to the City’, which entitles him and his family to a meal, movies, tenpin bowling and Gold Reef City Theme Park facilities once a month for 12 months following his recovery.

His father said he has no words to thank all who supported him during trying times, especially Gold Reef City. “My daughter came all the way from Mount Frere, Eastern Cape to celebrate with Simphiwe. My son is happy, I am happy and thank you all,” said George.

Simphiwe is currently in Grade Six at Progressive Primary School in Braamfontein.