South Rand Hospital disabled patients enjoys Mandela Day

HOW special it is to see people with newly diagnosed disabilities perform their own 67 minutes for Mandela Day.

Each year, the allied team (occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists and audiologists) at South Rand Hospital do their 67 minutes together with the patients in the physical rehabilitation ward. This enables the patients to fulfil Mandela’s dream, despite their hospitalisation. It also allows the patients to elevate their mood and engage in a fun and stimulating activity.

Jenna Cohen, an occupational therapist from South Rand Hospital, said, “We were so fortunate to receive a generous donation of over 100 cupcakes, icing sugar and delicious toppings from a Grade Four class at Reddam House, Waterfall (Grade 4R). Under the guidance of their teacher, Shireen van Zijl, the learners performed their 67 minutes by baking cupcakes for our patients.

“The learners joined us via internet call and together we celebrated being a South African in a time of continuous change. The national anthem was sung by the learners who were then joined by the patients of the hospital. This event displayed Mandela’s constant strive for freedom, equality and peace as it brought persons of all ages, races, religions, disabilities and economic status together.

“Thank you to Shireen for teaching your children the importance of giving. Mandela constantly preached the significance of education and this is exactly what you are giving your learners. A further thank you to all the learners and their parents for making this event a great success.”

The patients spent their 67 minutes decorating the cupcakes with various coloured icing and toppings and challenged their own artistic abilities as they made designs of Mandela’s face, outlined his name and decorated with so many different designs. A friendly competition was held where the patients chose a therapist with the best-decorated cupcake and the therapists then chose a patient with the best-looking cupcake. For many patients, Mandela Day brought on a smile that has not been seen for a while. It is amazing to see how giving to others can warm your own heart and add to your happiness.

The cupcakes were distributed among the patients, St Mary’s Children’s Home and Queenshaven residents.

“We hope that the smiles seen today continue to shine each day. Thank you to all involved in this wonderful and successful event,” she said.

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