If you’ve ever wondered how deep a mother’s love and resilience runs, Sibongile’s story is a great place to start. Faced with raising a child with osteogenesis imperfecta, she not only overcame challenges in finding adequate support, but she also drew inner strength from her hardships.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 October 2024) – The prospect of becoming a mother and the thrill of welcoming a new life into the world is an indescribable experience.
However, when that little life arrives with unexpected challenges, it can be a deeply daunting adjustment. Something that Sibongile knows all too well.
The resilient mother to a precious little girl named Leona chose to turn the anxiety of raising a child with osteogenesis imperfecta into strength and courage.
Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic or heritable disease in which bones fracture (break) easily, often with no obvious cause or minimal injury.
According to The Chaeli Campaign, Sibongile experienced challenges in caring for Leona, including a long search for support. However, she grew stronger and found hope.
“My perspective of life changed. I became a strong, bold, and courageous woman,” she reflects.
Thanks to The Chaeli Campaign, Leona received a wheelchair, giving her the freedom to attend check-ups and participate in family activities.
Sibongile continues to pay this forward by facilitating workshops and encouraging people with disabilities to live full, active lives.
“My advice to other parents is to advocate for your child and surround yourself with supportive communities.”
Her inspiring story and those of many other parents of children with disabilities have been shared in the Chaeli Campaign’s book, Champions of Inclusion.
The book, created for the organisation’s 20th birthday, hopes to inspire individuals to embrace inclusivity and celebrate the unique qualities of every person.
For more information visit https://www.chaelicampaign.org/product/champions-of-inclusion-commemorative-collection/
Sources: The Chaeli Campaign
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