Infinity Living Namibia

28/09/2022

Alina awaits life changing surgery for grandson

Staff Reporter

FOR Alina Timoteus, aged 65, raising children is no new task. The grandmother of over 10 children however finds it difficult to care for her six-year-old grandson, Simon Nekwaya Amukoto who has little to no mobility due to a birth defect.

The grandmother who stays alone with her nine grandchildren in Enkolo village near Oshigambo is awaiting on news of a possible surgery which may save her grandchild's life. Timoteus explained that six-year-old Simon was born with a Pan hydrocephalus condition, which is a birth defect affecting his brain.

The elderly lady states that currently she is unemployed and she often struggles to come up with money for food, nappies and transportation fees to travel to Oshakati state hospital and/or Onandjokwe Hospital where her grandson has numerous appointments, adding that it costs up to N$ 150 to travel for one person.

Timoteus stated that her grandson cannot stand or walk, or sit up for too long due to his condition and as such has special needs.
The elderly woman added that her grandson has grown heavy with age, and is difficult to carry.

She however said that part of their challenges might soon come to an end soon as the Youth in the Ohangwena region has pledged to donate a wheelchair, after several media reports on her grandson's condition.

Despite these positive developments, Timoteus however remains anxious, as she states that she is yet to hear news on whether or not her grandson will receive surgery on 29 September 2022, adding that if the condition is left untreated, it may prove fatal for her grandson.

The elderly woman further appealed to any member of the public to assist in whichever way they can towards her plight. Timoteus can be reached @ 0817387756/ 0812388033.

PICTURED: Young, Simon Nekwaya Amukoto and his grandmother Meme Alina Timoteus. Photo: Contributed