WALKING
The gift of the buggies completely changes the lives of these kids and their families .
A Heartfelt Thank You
Thank you to our sponsors , volunteers , and everyone who contributed to this incredible weekend – from the bottom of our hearts . Your contribution goes far beyond the buggies themselves ; you ’ ve given these children a gift of freedom , a chance to explore their world , and a reason to believe in miracles .
For many of these children , this cherished gift represents something they ’ ve waited a lifetime for . That is why I believe that together , we are all the real superheroes in this story , and the impact we have created will resonate for years to come .
If you would like to know more about Mike ’ s Challenge , and especially if you would like to financially support his ongoing efforts to help children with cerebral palsy , please visit http :// 4x4x48 . mikesaidwhat . site .
Superhero # 3 : The Hospital Staff : The tireless work of the doctors , nurses and therapists at Tshilidzini Hospital and surrounding clinics is nothing short of heroic . They fight daily to make miracles happen for their patients , often with limited resources . There is no medical aid , and their battle is not to get points that will give them a better level and cheaper airline flights . This is a fight that few of us can even comprehend . I stand in awe of them and their work .
Superhero # 4 : The Volunteers : Our team and volunteers from all walks of life gave their time , skills and hearts to this cause . It ’ s a testament to the incredible spirit of humanity that people will dedicate themselves so wholeheartedly to making a difference . My job is the easiest : I walk around , camera in hand , trying to capture the moment of magic that this team produces . I am blown away by the miracles they work , converting scrap to gold , supporting each other , managing the logistics , smiling , laughing , teaching , reassuring and custom-fitting each child into their buggy .
Superhero # 5 : The Donors : Let ’ s not forget the silent heroes – the donors and supporters who make these initiatives possible , by supporting our efforts emotionally and financially . Their generosity provides the tools and resources to create a brighter future for these children , and let me assure you that their support changed lives this weekend , and into the future .
A Weekend of Miracles
The Author , in His Own Words
From Marylin ’ s description of the weekend … We hit the ground running , sending a “ mountain ” of supplies ahead of time to prepare for the 100 children who would be receiving buggies . These children came from a staggering seven different hospitals , and a team of 43 therapists collaborated with us to achieve the seemingly impossible .
Fitting each child into their custom buggy takes painstaking hours . It ’ s a labour of love , but the reward is immeasurable . We witnessed magic unfold , and the MEC of Limpopo Province , who visited our workshop , shared our awe . She recognised the profound impact of our work , and requested that we expand our buggy recycling skills training to reach even more hospitals and clinics across the province . Of course , we were overjoyed to accept this mission .
Beyond the technical feats , we gained a profound glimpse into the lives of these families . Poverty and special needs can be a crushing burden , yet the hall where we worked vibrated with an undeniable energy . Stories were shared , laughter echoed , and the depth of love resonated . It was a powerful reminder of the human spirit , a testament to how love can truly conquer all .
I often refer to myself as “ Just a waiter who got lucky !” Starting off as a waiter back in 1988 , my experience in customer service and marketing has included owning my own Top 100 Restaurants and working with some of the great innovators and trendsetters in the hospitality industry . After 32 years in the hospitality industry , including three years as the marketing manager of one of SA ’ s leading brands , The Mugg & Bean , I bring my own brand of humour and understanding to the weird and wonderful world of marketing .
Today , my company , MikeSaidWhat ? works with companies and individuals from all industry segments , advising them on branding strategy , market development and customer service . We also specialise in the development and implementation of social media strategy for all businesses . I believe that my ability to impart this knowledge in a humorous and down-to-earth manner has contributed greatly to my success . More at https :// mikesaidwhat . co . za .
Images : Mike Said
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