BLOEMFONTEIN – Amongst the runners that will line up for the start of the Mimosa Mall Marathon 10km race on Saturday 28 February, there will be one special young man.
Realeboha Matia (21) from Ficksburg once lay on an operating table. Now, thanks to the Smile Foundation, he has the courage to run.
He was born with Moebius Syndrome (facial paralysis) and syndactyly (webbed fingers). He grew up facing physical challenges that many people never see or understand.
In 2012, the Smile Foundation facilitated the reconstructive surgeries. These surgeries improved his physical function. They opened the door to confidence he had never known before.
Over the years, Realeboha refused to be defined by his condition. He worked hard, built his strength and found freedom in movement, and discovered confidence step by step. Now, he is preparing to take on the Mimosa Mall 10km. He is not doing this as a professional athlete. Rather, he is determined to prove that his journey did not end in the operating theatre.
“Smile Foundation didn’t just help me physically,” says Realeboha. “They gave me a chance. Running this race is my way of showing other children that where you start doesn’t have to be where you finish.”
He will run proudly to support the Smile Foundation. His goal is to raise awareness about Moebius Syndrome. He also aims to highlight the importance of access to reconstructive surgery for children with facial differences.
His story is not about perfection. It is about possibility. It shows families currently navigating surgery that there is life beyond the hospital ward. Confidence can grow in the most unexpected ways.
He may be the one on the track, but he is supported by a powerful circle behind him. The Sweat Shop has provided his running shoes, Southern Sun Bloemfontein is generously offering accommodation and breakfast, and 32Gi has supplied the sports nutrition needed for his training and race-day preparation. Together, they have ensured Realeboha has everything he needs, but it is his determination that drives him forward.
Read more about Smile Foundation: Jong brandslagoffer se uitkyk verbreed ná operasie danksy Smile-week and Smile-week: Help kind wat byna deur hond verskeur is en ook vele ander.
The Smile Foundation continues to provide life-changing reconstructive surgery. It also offers psychosocial support to children across South Africa. More than 5,000 children have been supported to date. This helps them build not only function, but self-belief.
On 28 February, every kilometre Realeboha runs will carry a simple message: healing can lead to strength, and strength can lead to hope.
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