Emilia Zhanda, once a hardworking peasant farmer in Shamva, now relies on her daughter for daily living. A stroke six years ago left her struggling to hold objects with her right hand and walk independently.
“We grew up in a family where I learnt about hard work,” says Mrs Mhene, Emilia’s daughter. “My mother would farm and do gold panning. Now, toileting is a struggle, and I feel pain all over from lifting her.”
The Health Promotion Clinic Trust’s Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) program, a recommended approach for supporting individuals with disabilities, is helping Emilia regain her footing after being referred by social worker Abigail Mgugu Mhene. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions have begun, with fees waived due to her special case status. Thanks to a partnership with St Christopher’s Children with Disability, a commode chair was donated, easing Emilia’s toileting struggles. A wrist splint, donated by Bigboy Madzivanzira, is also aiding her rehabilitation.
Gogo Emilia’s Road to Recovery Gains Momentum
Emilia’s progress is remarkable – after just two days of therapy, she walked a few steps without assistance. Next steps include a quad stick for balance, a dropfoot splint, and hand activities for rehabilitation.
About the Author
Bigboy Madzivanzira is a multi-faceted individual with expertise in health promotion. He is registered as a Health Promotion Officer by Allied Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe, a Medical Rehabilitation Practitioner registered with the Medical Rehabilitation Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe, a Family Therapist and a Freelance Journalist accredited by the Zimbabwe Media Commission. He can be contacted on 0773 367 913 or email him on healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com