Kyle & Esther's Story

As well as being mother to a son with special needs, a Wukwashi volunteer, and a teacher at a small private school, Esther also grows an impressive array of vegetables in her garden.The whole family help with the gardening, including 5 year old Kyle.

When Kyle was newly born he was given quinine to treat jaundice. He sadly had an adverse reaction to the quinine, resulting in brain damage. "At first I felt desperate and cried all the time," admits Esther. But she loved her son, knew that his disability was not her fault, and decided to find out what she could do to help him. She started taking Kyle for physiotherapy at a hospital, and then found out about Wukwashi Wa Nzambi's support group in her neighbourhood. Both she and Kyle loved it from the start. "I couldn't believe all the toys that were there!" Esther remembers.

Kyle is a real livewire, who loves people and frequently breaks into a broad smile. Esther is committed to enabling Kyle to reach his potential and live a full life. Thanks to his Mum's determination and patience, he is toilet trained, can feed himself and walks with some support.

Both Esther and Kyle are an encouragement to other families. "I know how hard it can be to care for a child with special needs. But with love, patience and some practical support from others, so much is possible for these children."

Kyle's smiling face as he makes mud pies in the garden with his cousin gives testament to that.