Practical Help for the severely disabled

Sylvia came seeking help at 8.00 am this morning for her son Simon who is actually 8 years old but we mistakenly thought he was only 2. He has severe disabilities. £25 was being requested o enable Mum and Simon to travel to an appointment next week at BEIT care hospital in Lusaka. The money would be for travel and food for the return journey. Sylvia left with a grateful smile and Simon enjoyed holding his new fabric handmade dolly which we brought with us from a loyal supporter in the UK. Just right for occasions such as these.

Sylvia with her disabled son, Simon

Simon

Then we travelled on to Ntambo where we were very much looking forward to seeing Priscilla and Isaiah. Priscilla is a disabled single mum who has received help and support from HHZ for many years. She manages because of the monthly HHZ food supplies but as a Mum who struggles to stand and lives in the bush, we wanted to treat her to some toiletries, washing powder, toothpaste and soap, as well as some new clothes. A trip to Monze market provided what we needed. Some additional gifts we brought with us from the UK: a sturdy ball and a Duplo train.

Priscilla and Isaiah

Priscilla and Isaiah

With the aid of signing and some interpretations from Mr Gondwe (HHZ chairperson), we managed to communicate to Priscilla that Isaiah should start to attend the local pre-school and that Priscilla could begin some sewing training at the HHZ headquarters in Monze from Monday-Friday. Priscilla liked the idea and the new T-shirt for Isaiah and her black top and the colourful tchtengi skirt, were a perfect fit.

Finally, we travelled a few kilometres from Priscilla’s humble abode to another small hut in the bush where we found Cabilo Ngomo who has been lying down covered with a simple blanket for the most part of his 14 years. He is severely disabled and unable to stand, communicate or do anything for himself. It was a very tragic and shocking situation. How can Calibo and his parents endure this terrible hardship? No income, no comfort, and no prospect of help. We tried to lift Cabilo into an adapted walking frame, but it wasn’t suitable for his fragility. However, on our return to HHZ compound we did locate a spare wheelchair which Robbie fixed and it with be taken to him asap.

Cabilo Ngomo

Cabilo in walking frame