Walking through the dorms one is faced with many emotions. One is confronted with the apparent sense of hopelessness when you look at the twisted little bodies of our children as they are sitting in their wheelchairs. Yet the feeling is not that hopeless; because inside each and every one of them is the need to love and be loved and that is so humbling, because despite their severe disabilities they still radiate love; peace and joy. They also have exactly the same needs as every living being has and that is to belong. As one draws closer and begin to speak to them and call them by name, their little faces light up and they just melt under the attention. A little boy looks at you with pleading eyes unable to blink, speak or move; a victim of a near drowning accident.
Another little girt teeters around on the tips of her toes as if she might fall at any moment, a victim of fetal alcohol syndrome. One young man confined to a wheelchair has the ability to maneuver himself around using his feet in long waking strides. He is very quick to indicate, with shaky movements, fingers extended how many sleeps he has before he goes home for the weekend once again. He is one of the luckier residents who get to see and experience life away from Woodside. Only a fortunate few have families that care for and love them, but because of circumstances are unable to take care of them at home. Sadly too many of our special children have been abandoned or orphaned and others have been placed with us by the courts as a result of abuse or neglect.
The tenacity that these children display is something to observe and to learn from they thrive under attention and even though everyday task such as brushing teeth, brushing hair and bathing is done for them their dignity still remains intact as they are treated by their carers as if they were their own.
We are their family and they are ours and together we form the "Woodside Family."
Thank You
To all our loyal supporters, donors and volunteers we say a heartfelt thank you for always being there when you are called upon. It means a great deal to us. We wish you to know that by giving generously for the care and support of our children you will be surprised at how much you will be giving of yourself. Your eye will be that much brighter, your head will be that much higher and the lightness in your heart will tell you that you have eased the burden of a parent, a carer, a child.
Thank you.
Our Wishlist
We are in need of many everyday items. Below we have provided our wish list and should you be able to help with any of the items on the list please do not hesitate to contact our Funding Development Department on 021 696 2811.
Large disposable nappies
4 x filing cabinets (for hanging files)
1 x Digital camera
2 x Laptops
1 x Data projector
Wet wipes (endless supply!)
