Apart from eating, Amber’s passions include listening to music (Her tastes in music are vast but this does not mean she will listen to just any old thing either!). Amber is absolutely mad about swimming. As soon as she gets into the water she becomes incredibly active, kicking those legs like mad with a determined look upon her face. Should you have any information regarding pool products for the disabled please contact us.

One of the things we have really appreciated having is a lightweight, umbrella-folding stroller. The MacLaren was graciously donated to us by a work colleague and has worked very hard for us. We have recently sent it in for impossible repairs as it is quite old and will most likely have to purchase a new one, which will hopefully last as long. The umbrella type stroller is super convenient to pack into the boot of the car and assemble whereas the bigger, more solid type of stroller is better to keep open in your home or at the school where you do not have to battle with opening and folding it.

Amber loves to go out and about in her stroller (this girl likes to shop!) and we have met many wonderful people this way. Total strangers will approach Amber and start talking to her. Amber is a “loves and kisses” kinda gal so she really enjoys this positive interaction and affection from people. We have also been the lucky recipients of truly generous donations from individuals and institutions. Thanks to everyone.

The story does not end here. As Amber grows bigger, new challenges arise. As this point in time she is still able to fit (just comfortably) into regular disposables. These are used for bedtime and towelling nappies with carefully stretched waterproofs are used in the daytime. The Nappy Factory outlets supply disposables (Called Goodees) for children up to 30 kgs as well as other incontinent products. The outlet in Durban also stocks supersize waterproofs.

Another important thing to remember is that disabled children under the age of 18 are also entitled to a government grant. This may be dependant on the joint income of the parents / guardians but we have battled to get the correct information regarding this. It is quite a process but worth it in the end. Please contact your local social welfare department for the necessary requirements.

Although small framed, Amber is a dead-weight therefore any activities involving having to lift her is becoming more difficult. With puberty lurking in the near future, we will have to face new challenges, including moodswings, menstruation and probably a hysterectomy (We do require more information on this topic). Please feel free to post questions to other parents as well as personal experiences and other information on our message forum or in our guestbook.