His infectious, loving personality is what drives Tadi Zuli (5) every day.
The little boy from Velddrif was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth, but this disability has never got him or his spirits down.
Tadi attended crèche about 10 km from his home, and his mother, Cynthia Zuli, had to walk to get him there. With the help of caring people she and her little boy were assisted with a tricycle so he could get to school every morning.
“On receiving the bike my heart melted,” she related. “I was very happy and excited. It really does make a big difference in my life.”
Zuli’s boss Rob Gortmaker assisted by building Tadi a walking ring so he could exercise his legs.
“Raising a child with a disability is not easy at all, but being surrounded by loving, caring people and receiving help makes it so much easier.”
One of the challenges Tadi faced was not having the proper wheelchair to move around in, but once again with the help of good Samaritans Christelle Anandale and an anonymous donor he received two wheelchairs. Like many children this year, Tadi started Grade R at Karitas Special Needs School in Vredenburg. One of the other challenges she now faces is transport from Velddrif to Vredenburg to get her son to school and back.
“Having transport to and from school would make things so much easier.”
Zuli would like to thank Gortmaker and his wife Carien Gortmaker, Elona Hewitt and Lynette Burke for their assistance. She would like to send him for medical treatment by professionals, but would also need assistance with funding.
Zuli says her son is very motivated, has a positive attitude and pushes himself to do more.
If you would like to help contact Gortmaker on 073 832 2923.
