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2016: DANIËL AND FRIENDS HOST PARTY
Families celebrate gift of life DESIRÉE RORKE @dezzierorke
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Beautiful little Gadija Mohamed is completely charmed by Johan “Richboy” Potgieter, aka Santa Claus, who not only attends to all the fund’s printing and branding requirements, but proved to be a most memorable addition to the event. PHOTO: KIEKIEPHOTO
he Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre in Muldersvlei set the scene for festivities when 46 families – all parents of special needs children – celebrated the gift of life at Daniël and Friends Fund’s third annual Christmas party. This non-profit organisation was formed three years ago by three mothers of special needs children, of whom two passed away in 2013. Their vision was to create a platform for a stronger, more intimate special needs community, and in doing so providing personal support to parents and children. The atmosphere was thus filled with companionship and intimacy. “It was in fact no different to that of a small, close-knit family gathering,” says Nicky de Beer, a director of the organisation, about the event. An emotional highlight of the morning was the traditional lighting of candles in memoriam of the children who had passed away during the year. “The group reflected on
the past year with unrestrained emotion when remembering these children, who had earned their angels’ wings.” Some moms and dads who, during the course of the year, stood out in their own unique way, were recognised with special awards. Then it was time for the children to enjoy a visit from Santa Claus. De Beer says the organisation had enjoyed its most rewarding and fulfilling year yet. “With almost 90 registered families now, the fund was able to provide various elements of support to several children by way of donating equipment, sponsoring intervention therapy and providing assistance for day-today needs.” Much was accomplished in 2016. “The fund helped facilitate the Painting It Forward 2016 project at Karl Bremer Hospital’s paediatric unit in September this year, and was once again able to contribute to Sive Nathi Licenced Home in Blackheath with their Santa Shoebox Project earlier this month,” she adds. V To page 2.
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