At the age of five, Laban had cerebral malaria, resulting in loss of mobility and the onset of epilepsy. Having spent many of his younger years running around with friends and family in his community, he was no longer able to walk, speak or use one of his hands. Laban was no longer able to care for himself and never started attending school, despite the fact that he is intellectually able.

For Laban’s mother, Maureen, her life also changed overnight as she became Laban’s full-time caregiver. Feeling tied down with not being able to leave the house without making plans for who would care for Laban impacted her feelings towards him, until a training opportunity gave her a new outlook on life. 

A mother’s love rekindled

Maureen joined the parent support group training run by OM at Lake Tanganyika. There, she received training on disability awareness, basic childcare, playtime and learnt exercises to do with Laban. Joining the parent support group transformed the relationship between Maureen and her son. Her love and enjoyment of spending time with Laban were rekindled; she now spends time every day learning different ways to communicate with him, singing with him and playing games.

The power of fellowship and community

As Laban grew bigger, Maureen struggled to carry him around, and community life felt far out of reach. Through partnerships with Beit Cure Hospital in Lusaka, Laban was assessed for a wheelchair, which has opened many opportunities for both Laban and his mother. She can now take him to the market, church and into the heart of community life.

Maureen is a member of the Muzabwera parent support group in Mpulungu and she has been elected as the treasurer for the overarching parent support group. She testifies of her deep gratitude for the love, support and fellowship she receives from the other parents in the group; it was a lifeline for her and for her relationship with her son. Through the group, the family was also given an audioBible which Laban enjoys listening to.