By Emily Setona
BETHLEHEM –Christmas has come early a -38-year-old Thabo Nhlapo, who has been bedridden since he lost the ability to walk at age 28 a brand-new wheel chair donated by Speaker of the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality (TMDM), Thabo Mokoena.
Nhlapo from Bohlokong, born a healthy child, was diagnosed with a fainting disease ten years ago. The condition gradually left him unable to walk or speak, confining him to his home and limiting his independence for daily activities.
“We hope this gift brings him freedom and dignity,” Mokoena said during the donation. “Personally, it is an accomplishment to help someone in need because that is the true measure of a leader.”
Mokoena who was accompanied by Dihlabeng councillor Pedro van Wyk on 17 November, also emphasized the importance of unity and compassion in communities.
“We all need to play an active role in assisting one another. I am making a clarion call for everyone to lend a helping hand wherever they can,” he added.
Nhlapo’s parents expressed deep gratitude for the gesture, calling it life changing.
“We are very thankful for this act of kindness. It will allow our son some mobility after many years of being confined,” they said.
The donation highlights TMDM’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable residents and ensuring that no member of the community is left behind.