Submitted by: Precious Mogosetse

Update:

It is with great sadness that we learned of Botshelo’s passing on Tuesday, 7 April 2020.

Previous:

A popular quote reads: “Until you have a kid with special needs you have no idea of the depth of your strength, tenacity, and resourcefulness.”

Despite the daily obstacles they face together, there is nothing in the world Precious Mogosetse enjoys more than caring for her son.

Here is her story:

My son, Botshelo, was born on 25 November 2013 – the day my life changed forever! I was only 20 years old when I gave birth at 31 weeks to a baby boy with Cerebral Palsy. As much as I was told that my son would not be normal, I had no idea that we would be where we are today. Botshelo is now 6 years old and although he can’t talk, walk, or do anything for himself, my happy boy is my entire world. 

I was very scared and unsure of myself after his birth but, despite my young age, I stepped into motherhood with everything I had. I might have lost some of my youth but I gained a beautiful son. At some point I was working for a very understanding employer but when new management took over I was forced to resign and look after Botshelo full-time. As he is fed via a tube it is difficult to find a suitable babysitter for him. I don’t think I would feel comfortable leaving him with someone else though anyway, as there is so much that can go wrong and I am still nervous it. 

In truth, this is not an easy journey and some days are really hard. My son is a blessing though and I love him more than what I can express in any words. 

One of the biggest challenges we face is uncertainty pertaining to Botshelo’s health. I can’t even remember how many times he has been admitted to hospital or rushed to the emergency room. In truth, this is not an easy journey and some days are really hard. My son is a blessing though and I love him more than what I can express in any words.

When you are a mom to a special needs warrior like I am, there are some dreams that you need to put on hold like walking in the park, having play-dates, and going ice skating. Sometimes I feel sad that my son will never be able to do the things other children do, but then I look at him and realize once again that God has blessed me with the absolute best. 

Botshelo has been more fortunate than a lot of children and has even had three big birthday parties to date. I continue to learn from him every day and have started a Cerebral Palsy support group for other parents who are on the same journey as I am. We are planning our second Annual Meeting and we have members from quite a few countries.  The love and support are just amazing. 

I would like to tell other mothers who are struggling to deal with the diagnosis of a special needs child that it’s not easy, but it gets better. Children with special needs, need love, patience and time. If you can invest time in your child’s life you will be victorious.

Because of you, we are staying!

Remember they may not talk but they sure do communicate and all they need is someone who is patient and loving.

I would also like to thank South Africa as a whole for helping me raise my little champion. Thanks to all the love, support, and advice I don’t even feel like a single parent.  Because of you, we are staying!

Edited by: Justine Bishop

For more positive and uplifting stories visit us at #ImStaying

GOOD THOUGHTS • GOOD WORDS • GOOD DEEDS