A Grandmother’s Hope Restored: “I’m Doing My Best for Him”

*Lindokuhle’s, 12,  journey is one of growth, perseverance, and the unwavering love of a grandmother who, despite numerous challenges, never gave up on him. From an early age, Lindokuhle’s differences were apparent. He wasn’t speaking, and while his health appeared typical, no doctor could explain why he wasn’t progressing developmentally or socially like other children. His grandmother, Happiness, bore the responsibility of his care alone, and the weight of uncertainty began to take its toll.

A Struggle for Answers

For years, Happiness sought answers, moving from one medical appointment to the next, only to face disappointment after disappointment. It wasn’t until a conversation with her husband’s boss that she received a potential clue: Lindokuhle might have autism. Initially overwhelmed, Happiness held onto the belief that her grandson was a special gift, regardless of his condition. Determined to give him a chance at a better future, she enrolled him in mainstream school, hoping that education would provide him with the opportunities to progress.

However, mainstream school presented new struggles, and despite a kind teacher, his classmates often teased him. Heartbroken, Happiness withdrew him, fearing his challenges would forever limit his possibilities. But just as her hope was fading, Siyakwazi entered their lives, offering a lifeline when she felt defeated.

New Possibilities

Thanks to Siyakwazi’s support, Lindokuhle received an official diagnosis at age 6, started receiving a Care Dependency Grant, and enrolled at a Special Education Needs School, CS Learning Centre. Beyond education, Siyakwazi’s holistic approach was invaluable. Happiness was offered the opportunity to complete a sewing course at the Sewing Hub and later sell secondhand clothes via the Siyakwazi Secondhand Shop from her home, which she continues to do successfully. This financial support has eased the strain on their household, allowing Happiness to contribute towards Lindokuhle’s needs, including school supplies and transport (a costly 80-kilometre round trip), as well as food, medication, and clothing.

The Turning Point: Finding Siyakwazi

The journey wasn’t easy. Initially, Happiness turned away Siyakwazi’s team, burdened by her past experiences with disappointment. “I was tired,” she says. “I had taken Lindokuhle to hospitals and doctors, but no one was working at home, and we had little money for it. I had lost hope.” But when Siyakwazi fieldworker Nontuthuko returned persistently, building trust with Lindokuhle, Happiness reluctantly agreed to accept the support. 

With Siyakwazi’s support, Lindokuhle started at CS Learning Centre, and the transformation, though gradual, was undeniable. He began speaking – asking for tea, food, and even requesting a bath. He became more social and enjoyed spending time with his family. “He didn’t like his mother before,” Happiness admits. “He used to fight her. But now, he recognises her, hugs her, and is happy to see her.”

A Glimpse Into Lindokuhle’s World

When asked what Lindokuhle enjoys doing in his spare time, Happiness smiles. “He loves watching cartoons and playing cricket with a guava as a ball and sticks as a bat,” she shares. Lindokuhle spends his downtime with Happiness and his cousins. “He likes to call me, kiss my hand, and tell me that he loves me,” she says, then adds with a laugh, “although sometimes, he can be stubborn. If he likes an item of clothing, he doesn’t want to change it. You have to sit with him and convince him.”

One of the biggest surprises has been Lindokuhle’s keenness to learn English, although his home language is isiZulu. “I never paid much attention to it,” she says. “Now, when I speak to him in Zulu, his cousins tell me to speak English so he can understand. When I ask him for something, he understands better in English.”

A Changed Future

Looking back, Happiness is filled with pride and gratitude as she watches Lindokuhle thrive. Today, Lindokuhle is learning and progressing towards his own developmental goals. “Siyakwazi changed Lindokuhle’s life – and mine,” she says with a smile. “I had lost hope, but now I see that he has a future. I want him to be successful, to have something to do when he grows up, just like other children.”

Reflecting on their journey, Happiness recalls her deep fears that Lindokuhle would never attend school or experience the opportunities other children have. But those fears have been replaced by dreams. “I’m doing my best for him,” she says, her voice full of emotion. “Siyakwazi was a blessing to us.”

*Name changed for privacy

Want to read more about Lindokuhle? You can read our interview with the principal of CS Learning Centre, Tammy Smulders, here: Lindokuhle’s SEN School Journey.