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Valerie Mpundu
Youth Interactive Writer
AN 11-year-old Rusape boy, Declan Stanger, demonstrated true friendship early this year when he cycled 38km along Mutare Road to raise funds for the treatment of his friend, Simbarashe Pako, who has speech and hearing impairments.
Declan raised US$6 000 for Simbarashe who was treated at Baines Clinic in Harare.
Simbarashe’s father works for Declan’s father as a tractor driver.
In an interview, Stanger expressed great joy over Simbarashe’s recuperation.
“I am feeling very proud that I have managed to find him the much-needed help, thus in turn extending an olive branch to many other children out there.
“There’s always room to spread a little love. It might not be enough but I really am glad I did this for my best friend.
“I am inspired to continue making a difference in people’s lives,” he said.
Stanger participated in the recently held Ear Clinic at Jairos Jiri, proving he is staying true to his word as he seeks change.
Sarah Loki, Simbarashe’s mother, expressed great satisfaction with the outcome of her son’s treatment.
“I can now fully communicate with Simba without his hearing aides.
“My son can now relay anything to me without using sign language.
“His treatment is meant to take six months but I am excited about how it has turned out,” she said.
The mother hailed medical teams for assisting her son.
“The responses I have been getting from his teachers are amazing.
“I visit him once a week and it is such a great feeling to be able to have a fully blown conversation with him.
“The joys of motherhood one would say,” she said.
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Online Reporter