Parents:
Abraham and Gloria Motsoane
Profession:
Abraham: Entrepreneur (IT and Business Consultant)
Gloria: Nail Technician and Part time Caregiver
Age of parents:
43 and 36
Child’s name:
Keomogetswe “Kea” Monnye
Age: 9 years old.
Is this your only child?
Yes, we have a daughter who is turning two in November. Dad has two children from a previous relationship (Son 17 and Daughter 15)
Diagnosis of child: Mixed Cerebral Palsy.
What are the biggest challenges facing your child on a daily basis?
The frustrations that he experiences when he is not understood; that he can't do certain things for himself.
What are the happiest moments you have with your child on a daily basis?
He has the most beautiful smile; he is very vocal (using mumbling sounds). He interacts very well with other people, he loves being the centre of attention.
Are you a single parent or married?
Married for 10 years.
Has your special needs child had an effect on your marriage?
Oh yes, most definitely. In the beginning, when we did not understand Cerebral Palsy, it put so much strain on our marriage. But time has helped to understand what really caused his CP, we are now close and think Kea is a blessing in our lives..
What has your child taught you about yourself, both positively and negatively?
That if something or someone matters to you, fight for them! Do not give up, if you do, at least don’t give up easily. Some situations cannot be changed and other’s can. Life is short, live a good life!
Are your family and friends supportive?
Yes, most of our family members have been supportive. And some who didn’t understand his condition are changing their thinking and can see that Kea is just like any other child. A doctor we consulted summed it up really well for me - "These kids are not stupid, they just have a physical disability!"
Do you take time out, if so what do you do to relax?
Yes, we often go out with Kea, to the park, Swimming pool etc. Sometimes Kea spends a night with granny so we can have a date night and go to the movies or dinner together.
What has made the biggest difference to your child’s quality of life?
The most important difference is that Gloria has been an excellent and devoted mom. When Kea’s attorney’s successfully fought for compensation for Kea’s medical negligence, this insured that Kea would be able to receive the best medical care and go to one of the best schools for special needs children (www.wandsworthschool.co.za) in Johannesburg.
What is your dream for your child?
That he lives the best life that he can, irrespective of his current physical ability. That he realizes that his mom and dad, and sisters and brother and other family members love him unconditionally. We do not want to make unrealistic expectations, but if only he could find a way to express himself so that we understand, every time, and immediately.
