More than 200 community members, including stroke patients, survivors and health care workers attended the event. Mrs Mmaletsatsi Tlolane, clinic manager for the Soshanguve area, welcomed guests and congratulated the organisers for the large turnout.
Guests actively participated in the event by singing, ululating and sharing their own experiences of when they were affected by stroke, as well as their rehabilitation process. “Peer support and socialisation can have an amazing impact on stroke recovery,” said Gogo Nomsa Langa from Leratong Old Age Home.
The elderly Mr uMkhulu Radebe said: “I am inspired by the support we receive from the officials. I want to encourage my peers to have their health tested and I also want to establish a support group [for stroke patients].”
Blood pressure and diabetes testing were also provided at the event.
Mr Peter Filwimba, Assistant Director of the patient rehabilitation programme in the Tshwane, said that the department is also planning events to celebrate International Day for Disabled Persons next month in the Mabopane, Winterveld and Ga-Rankuwa areas.
* Mishack Mahlangu is an OurHealth Citizen Journalist reporting from the Tshwane district in Gauteng.
