Anniversary  story

 

### From Tragedy to Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of WJL Mobility

 

On November 26, 2023, a life-altering journey began for a resident of Brackenfell, who set out for a leisurely ride on a Honda VFR 800 V-tec, unaware of the tragedy that awaited him. Just 10 kilometers before reaching Malmesbury on the N7, the rider found himself in a harrowing situation. A vehicle swerved unexpectedly, forcing him into a barrier and resulting in devastating injuries that would change the course of his life forever.

 

Waking up in Tygerberg Hospital days later, he faced the harsh reality of losing both his left leg and right arm. The dreams of continuing his career as a truck driver and becoming a full-time tour guide after retirement were shattered in an instant. As he battled through the pain and confusion, he realized he had to adapt to his new life as a disabled individual, requiring care and support.

 

Discharged in January 2024 under the care of Carien Pretorius, he was determined to find a new purpose. With resilience and a refusal to dwell on his losses, he began exploring alternative income sources. It was during this quest that he discovered the world of mobility solutions. Upon receiving a mobility scooter, he felt a spark of inspiration and applied to become a certified agent for Endura-SA Mobility products. This marked the inception of WJL Mobility, officially registered as a PTY Ltd in March 2024.

 

As WJL Mobility took shape, he encountered countless individuals with disabilities who faced significant challenges in accessing mobility solutions. This experience ignited a passion for advocacy, and on September 21, 2024, he was invited to speak at an event in Wesbank Township organized by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). Together with Carien, they recognized a pressing need for affordable disability solutions, particularly among the underprivileged and middle-class communities.

 

Motivated by a desire to make a difference, Carien began collecting donations of gently used clothing. However, they soon realized that while they could help with clothing, there was still a critical gap in providing mobility aids. To address this need, they collaborated with Hannelie Du Plessis and Manda Smith to establish the nonprofit organization, Mobility for Freedom (MFF). This initiative aims to raise funds to support those who cannot afford necessary mobility solutions.

 

MFF is set to host its first fundraiser at Sessions Billiard and Dart Club in Bellville. This event represents not just a fundraising effort, but a community coming together to support individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the mobility aids they need to lead fulfilling lives.

 

The journey from that fateful day to now showcases the incredible strength of the human spirit and the power of community. WJL Mobility and Mobility for Freedom stand as testaments to resilience and compassion, proving that even in the face of tragedy, one can rise, adapt, and inspire others. As the story unfolds, it serves as a beacon of hope for many, reminding us all that together, we can overcome challenges and create lasting change.