Hot Cares Christmas – Mother of Disabled Boy Gets a Helping Hand

Hot Cares really does come across some incredible people, as we look to make a meaningful difference to the lives of those around us.

Most of these incredible people are selfless, putting the needs of others ahead of their own, and that includes parents of special needs children, such as Milan, and his story reached us via his physiotherapist, Dianne, who treats children with Cerebral Palsy.

“I have a patient called Milan, who is very close to my heart,” she says. “He turns 15 in December and has wonderful parents, Deidre and Kevin.”

Milan was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy as a result of a premature delivery and pulmonary haemorrhage, and he presents as a Spastic Quadriplegic. He is able to sit independently but cannot stand or walk.

That means when the 40-kilogram wheelchair-bound boy needs a bath or wants to go to sleep, it’s Deidre whose job it is to lift and move him, as Milan lives with her, following the couple’s divorce.

No surprise to hear that this is putting more and more strain on Deidre’s back, as Milan continues to grow.

“He is an absolutely delightful child, always happy and content, but he is a tall boy and getting heavier each year,” said Dianne. “It would make Deidre’s life so much easier and prevent back pain if they could have a hoist to assist in transferring Milan from his chair to the bath and to bed.”

HOT 102.7FM’s Head of News, Tara Penny, also managed to establish in advance that Milan has been a huge fan of the Afrikaans singer, Carike Keuzenkamp, since he was two years old and sings along to her CD daily.  When Hot Cares reached out to Carike to share Milan’s story and love for her singing, she immediately responded and sent a personalised video message for Milan.

So, Hot Cares sent Tara Penny along to visit Milan and his family and surprised Milan with the special video message and a personalised t-shirt with her face on it for him which absolutely blew him away.

Tara then linked up on the phone with Joburg’s Hottest Breakfast Show and they were able to break the good news to the family and let them know that Hot Cares will be easing Deidre’s physical challenges this Christmas by purchasing an electric hoist and sling they need. This hoist will assist with lifting Milan in and out the bath and into bed.

But, that’s not all.

Mindful of what Deidre has been through, Hot Cares was also able to stump up some spa vouchers, so she can treat herself and a friend for a day of relaxation.

Deidre says she’ll be taking Dianne along, as a thank you for nominating her for the Hot Cares Christmas.

We think that sounds just about right!

Merry Christmas, Milan and family!