Bigboy Madzivanzira
Pauline Mhene’s life took an unexpected turn in 2015 when she was diagnosed with cancer. The news was devastating, but Pauline, then in her early 50s, showed remarkable resilience. She underwent chemotherapy for six months, followed by maintenance therapy. The treatment was grueling, with painful side effects that left her weak and frail.
Despite the challenges, Pauline found solace in alternative medicine. She switched to herbal remedies, which seemed to work wonders. Her doctor was astonished by her progress, and her cancer cells decreased significantly. However, Pauline’s journey was far from over.
As she struggled with mobility issues, Pauline lost friends and became increasingly isolated. Her church community and relatives remained her pillars of strength, but she longed for independence. A painful fall led to fractures in her pubis ramus and rib, leaving her unable to walk.
Just when Pauline thought things couldn’t get worse, her right ankle became unstable, requiring support. That’s when the Health Promotion Clinic Trust stepped in, donating a wheelchair to Pauline. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
“Good afternoon Mr. Madzivanzira. My name is Abby Mgugu Mhene and am looking for assistance with a wheelchair for a cancer woman whose bones have become so brittle and are breaking. My humble request is to allow the lady to be mobile and have the Confidence to do a few tasks on her own. Right now she is on double crutches and her fingers have also been affected. She is 53 years old and was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer a few years back. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated,” said Mhene.
“Pauline would like to express her heartfelt gratitude for considering her request. She humbly requests that the wheelchair be suitable for her fragile condition, taking into account her brittle bones and affected fingers. Her goal is to regain some independence and confidence, allowing her to perform simple tasks on her own. Your kindness and support would mean the world to her,” she added.
With her new wheelchair, Pauline can now navigate her world with greater ease. She’s grateful for the kindness of strangers and the unwavering support of her loved ones. As she looks to the future, Pauline remains hopeful, her spirit unbroken despite the trials she’s faced.
In a heartwarming turn of events, Mr. Madzivanzira offered Pauline a specialized walker after assessing her needs. The specialized walker is courtesy of St Christopher’s Children with Disability. The walker is on its way to Kadoma, and Pauline is eagerly awaiting its arrival. This generous gesture will undoubtedly bring her even more mobility and independence.
The donated wheelchair was fitted with tubeless tyres by Rescu Sheltered Workshop in Harare, a testament to the collaborative efforts of organizations working together to support individuals with disabilities. Mr. Fungai Mawerera, the Manager of Rescu Sheltered Workshop, said, “Our diverse skills will benefit persons with disabilities and improve their quality of life.”
Recommendations for Further Management:
If there are organizations to sponsor physiotherapy and occupational therapy, Health Promotion Clinic Trust is willing to reduce fees to support this noble cause. Pauline needs:
1. Hip binder
2. Ankle supports
3. Ramps to the bathroom and outside entrance
4. Grab rails in the bathroom
Any individuals or organizations willing to assist are welcome.
Health Promotion Clinic Trust has listed Pauline Mhene under its Community Based Programme list, ensuring she receives close monitoring and empowerment in all areas to enable an improvement in her quality of life.
About the Author
Bigboy Madzivanzira is a multifaceted professional with expertise in health promotion, medical rehabilitation, special needs education, and freelance journalism. He is a registered:
– Health Promotion Practitioner with the Allied Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe
– Medical Rehabilitation Practitioner with the Medical Rehabilitation Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe
– Freelance Journalist accredited by the Zimbabwe Media Commission
He can be contacted on:
– Phone: 0773367913
– Email: mailto:healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com
Bigboy Madzivanzira is also the founder of the Health Promotion Clinic Trust, which provides various services, including physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and education, with a focus on supporting individuals with disabilities.