A sister’s devotion to her brother has propelled Tersia Sherrin into a determined quest to obtain a wheelchair for her 41-year-old sibling, Christo Pretorius, who lives with cerebral palsy.
Sherrin, a longtime resident of Newcastle, recounted that Christo’s challenges began at birth when he arrived prematurely.
During his hospital stay, a malfunction in the medical equipment briefly interrupted oxygen to his brain, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his future. Yet, she emphasised that despite his medical struggles, Christo has never let his condition dim his spirit.
She shared, “Over the years, Christo has shown immense courage and resilience, he is always full of smiles no matter how tough life gets.”
However, Sherrin pointed out that Christo’s current wheelchair no longer meets his needs, causing him considerable discomfort due to his cerebral palsy. “His body is bent quite a bit and he really needs a new wheelchair,” she explained, acknowledging that the financial burden is too great for their family to bear alone.
To raise the R48,000 required for a wheelchair tailored to Christo’s physical and daily requirements, Tersia has launched a BackaBuddy campaign.
“Christo is permanently in nappies, which we get him, and he is in a home for disabled people. We are now looking to raise funds to purchase a new, more suitable wheelchair that will improve his mobility and quality of life,” said an emotional Tersia.
As his sister, Tersia explained that while Christo resides in a facility for the disabled, she, her other brother, and their pensioner father have tirelessly supported him. Yet, their circumstances have reached a tipping point, prompting her to seek the Newcastle community’s aid. She now appeals to the town to join her family in enhancing Christo’s life, allowing him to experience greater comfort and joy.
With Tersia issuing a heartfelt plea for donations to elevate her brother’s quality of life, those willing to contribute can contact her at 082 323 4489 or visit the campaign link: A new wheelchair for my brother Christo.
As Tersia Sherrin rallies the local community for support, will you answer the call to transform Christo Pretorius’s daily experience and fulfil his family’s hope of seeing him thrive?
What are your thoughts on the above? Share your views in the comment section below.
