Caring for a child with cerebral palsy: The support that helped a Gauteng mother cope
Health-e News Caring for a child with cerebral palsy: The support that helped a Gauteng mother cope If there is a statement that still haunts Llona Makhubedu, it is: “Switch off the machine.” Eighteen years ago, her first-born son, Paballo Makhubedu could not breathe on his own after his birth and was placed on life support. Llona recalls that doctors asked her to consent to withdrawing life…
Llona Makhubedu, a mother from Gauteng, shares her story of caring for her son Paballo Makhubedu, who was born with cerebral palsy and required life support in 2003. Against medical advice, Llona refused to withdraw life support for her newborn son, believing in his survival. Today, Paballo is 18 years old and attends boarding school at the Boikanyo Disability Centre in Leboneng near Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria.
Paballo communicates through sign language and lip reading, and enjoys outings, particularly those involving water. Despite the challenges of raising a child with cerebral palsy, Llona acknowledges that she received adequate support from public healthcare, psychosocial, educational, and family sources throughout Paballo's life. She mentions the assistance from family members, the late Junkie Mputle, and the educational support provided by various schools.
However, Llona also highlights the emotional and psychological strain of raising a child with complex needs. She experienced anger, sadness, and the feeling of losing herself amid changes in her daily routine. Counseling proved beneficial in coping with the emotional pain, and she has since found solace in sharing her experiences to help others facing similar challenges.
Llona emphasizes the importance of continued support for children with cerebral palsy and their caregivers. She suggests practical improvements such as providing a supportive mattress, sensory learning materials, and a body-supporting wheelchair to enhance their lives. Llona's journey offers hope and inspiration for other families navigating the complexities of caring for children with cerebral palsy.
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