National Disability Awareness marked

As South Africa celebrates National Disability Rights Awareness Month which is observed between November 03 and December 03, the Atlegang Foundation visited learners of Pumla Special School to raise awareness about disability.

The visit which took place on November 16 saw various local business owners who specialise in hand crafts such as baking and fashion design come on board to offer motivation to the learners on possible career paths they can follow after completing their studies at the school.

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The founder of Atlegang Foundation, Lebogang Leuta who is also a mother to a son living with Neurofibromatosis type one, was thrilled to celebrate the day with the learners.

The day marked a significant time for the learners and parents with disabled children.

Neurofibromatosis type one is a condition characterised by changes in skin colouring and the growth of tumours along nerves in the skin, brain, and other parts of the body.

It is caused by a faulty gene which leads to uncontrolled growth of tumours developing in the nervous system.

Although raising a child living with the condition comes with its challenges, Leuta is going through all lengths to ensure that her young warrior, Atlegang (13), has all the love and support he needs.

“Raising a warrior like my son is like a breath of fresh air, we see life way beyond his condition.

“To me, he is special just like any child because being disabled does not change the way I see him. It just makes him extra special since he needs a high level of care,” Leuta said.

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She added that it is very important for residents to be willing to learn about disabilities since being equipped with this information provides a sense of acceptance to those affected.

“Some of the main challenges that my son still faces include bullying. Being mocked for his appearance, for looking and doing things differently but if there is enough awareness and education there would not be a need for disabled people to be bullied and excluded.”

Leuta urged mothers with children living with disabilities to know and learn more about their children’s disabilities and continue offering support and loving them.

The day ended on a high note with Pumla Special School learners receiving medals and certificates for their academic performance and participation.