Patients, nurses and therapists of Gauteng’s public and private rehabilitation centres recently participated in the annual Netcare Rehabilitation Sports Day under the theme “Being Able”, and celebrated their achievements.
There were smiles, cheers, and ice-cream, as over 350 people gathered to encourage those living with disabilities as they participate in activities including wheelchair races, a basketball tournament, “hocker” (a game that combines elements of hockey and soccer), and a wheelchair rugby demonstration.
Those patients at Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital who could not yet participate also came in droves to support participants and find inspiration for their own rehabilitation.
Jacques du Plessis, managing director of Netcare’s hospital division, said the sports day started 15 years ago with only 15 people. It has since grown to include rehabilitation facilities from every corner of Gauteng.
“Now in 2015, we had more than 350 participants, and we look forward to many more successful events in years to come,” he said.
“I am so, so inspired by what you do. Thank you all for taking part,” he told competitors.
“A while ago, Netcare’s executive team spent a whole day in wheelchairs to get a better understanding of the difficulties people living with disabilities face in their daily lives. It was extremely challenging and it certainly opened my eyes,” said Du Plessis
“I have huge respect for you, for the nurses, therapists and others who help, encourage and care for you,” he added.
Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital patient Jan Mogashoa was excited to be at the event and celebrated his recovery by taking part in the shot-put, volleyball and tug-of-war. He said sport is good for the body and has a positive impact on the mind.
“Sport uplifts me and helps me to forget my problems. When you participate in sport you get to meet new people. It also helps you to remain focussed on the things you can do and to remain positive,” he said.
“My message to other people who are watching here today is that they must have faith and hope that one day they will be able to do things they never imagined,” Magashoa said.
“Rehabilitation therapies, especially the physiotherapy, are sometimes painful. The pain is there, but when you are focussed on something more positive, like sport, it goes away.”
In concluding, Du Plessis says: “In keeping with the Netcare values we are celebrating 15 years of care, 15 years of dignity, 15 years of participation, 15 years of passion at Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital.”
Du Plessis thanked the relatives and friends of patients who attended the sports day and said their support was part of the reason their loved ones recovered so well.
Ends
Issued by: Martina Nicholson Associates (MNA) on behalf of Netcare 911
Contact: Martina Nicholson, Graeme Swinney, Meggan Saville, Thomas Hartleb or Devereaux Morkel
Telephone: (011) 469 3016
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]