Samalani Phanga was born some 32 years ago. He was handicapped from birth, and never learned to walk on his own. Samalani has a part-time job working at a store that is located just around the corner near his home. He has never owned a wheelchair and has to crawl to the store each morning.  

Because Samalani must make enough money to care for his wife and five children, he must hold down a second job. He is very skilled working with his hands and is a good businessman so he operates his own garage on the side. Samalani is very skilled in fixing bicycles and many people rely on him to keep their bicycles working. But, since his garage is across the street from his house, Samalani must crawl across the street to get to work. Lately, crossing the street has been causing trouble for Samalani. 

“The police have decided that I can no longer cross the street to get to my garage,” he said. “Because I have to crawl, they are worried that I will get hit by a car and get hurt. But if I can’t fix bicycles, I will not be able to feed my wife and children.” 

Recently, a wheelchair reached Samalani, a gift from FWM and their partner in the region, Blessings Hospital.   When he received his wheelchair, the hospital staff could see Samalani “trying to jump up and down, full of such joy and happiness.”  

“Your gift has made it possible for me to care for my family,” Samalani said. We will be able to support ourselves, and not have to be given a hand out by others.” 

“Thank you for helping me to help myself,” he added. “And tell everyone they must work hard to succeed, as I am doing."