‘This is how we do it’: 30 years of caring for a son with cerebral palsy
Keneilwe Dikoma's life changed forever when her son Lorato was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at six months old. For three decades, she has navigated the complexities of care in rural South Africa, facing challenges from inadequate medical facilities to a lack of basic equipment and support. This is their story of resilience and the urgent call for improved disability services.
Cerebral palsy, a group of permanent conditions affecting movement, posture and muscle control, can be caused by various factors in South Africa, including birth asphyxia. Lorato Dikoma, a 31-year-old man, was born with spastic quadriplegic CP, a condition that affects all four limbs and requires full-time care from his mother, Keneilwe Dikoma.
The diagnosis came during a six-month check-up at a rural clinic in Lotlhakane, North West, South Africa, in 1995. Despite being born in a rural clinic, Lorato was initially unaware of his condition and only diagnosed after experiencing seizures and lack of typical developmental milestones. Living in a rural area, caring for a child with cerebral palsy can be challenging due to financial constraints, lack of proper medical facilities, and limited access to essential resources.
Despite these hardships, the community has supported the Dikoma family and provided opportunities for Lorato to participate in church events and gatherings, bringing him immense joy.
Written by urgent.news from Bhekisisa's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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