Angella Johnson
It takes a small brigade of dedicated helpers, working around the clock, to help Minas Michael cope with his disabilities. And there is none more devoted than Simon Nkoana, a faithful retainer who worked in the family’s supermarket for 18 years.
He acts as chauffeur, nurse, companion and friend. ”I love this kid like he was my own flesh and blood. He has always been such a good, kindhearted person, and treated people well. I just want to see him better.”
Nkoana is protective of his charge and is ever alert to any possible discomfort – even to the extent of gauging which way the wind is blowing as he pushes the wheelchair, ”so that Minas won’t catch a cold”.
Despite having injured his back during a car crash earlier this year, he refused to give up his position. It is not just a job for him.
”I watched Minas grow up and it saddens me to see him now in this state, but with the help of God and the love he gets, I feel in my heart that he will some day surprise everyone and make a full recovery.
”You can already see the difference in the way he has put on weight and is responsive to things happening around him.”