Case Studies
Sentebale - Ramatla
Ramatla is 14-years-old and she both lives and is at school at The Thuso Centre. Since she was born, Ramatla could not walk or crawl. She couldn’t feed herself, dress, or go to the toilet on her own. Her hands were permanently clenched into fists, and although she is bright girl, her physical disabilities meant that she could not communicate.
Since she joined Thuso in January 2009, Ramatla has been receiving therapy for both fine motor skills and gross skills. After only eight months, she can now walk on her own and communicate with her classmates. The teachers who made these drastic improvements possible through continuous therapy and training are supported by Sentebale. Also, it was Letsema, a website and network set up by Sentebale that brought the occupational therapists and physiotherapists to Thuso who continue to work with Ramatla.
Sentebale has renovated the school grounds, making all of the facilities accessible to children with severe physical disabilities. The ramps and paved surfaces make it possible for Ramatla and children like her to get to class and to the dormitories independently. She once would have had to cross uneven, rocky grounds to get to an outdoor latrine, but Sentebale has installed indoor, handicapped-accessible toilets and showers with hot, running water and electricity.
Ramatla’s parents once thought that she would never walk. They are now overwhelmed with happiness when they see her walk towards them, arms ready for a hug. Her mother is not only overjoyed by Ramatla’s physical improvements and increased independence, but also by the fact she is now constantly smiling.