Phoenix man receives life-changing wheelchair after triple amputation
INSPIRED
Imantha Arumugam, left, Clinton Samuel and Clive Govender of the Rotary Club of Phoenix, handed over the new wheelchair to Dhanish Benimadho
Image: RACHEL VADI
AFTER suffering three amputations following a construction site accident, Phoenix resident Dhanish Benimadho found new independence through a wheelchair donation from the Rotary Club of Phoenix.
His inspiring story shows how mobility assistance can transform lives and restore dignity.
Six months ago, life changed for Benimadho when he stepped onto a nail while working at a construction site - it led to three amputations up to the mid-calf of his left leg.
It has been a long journey for the 44-year-old who found difficulty being mobile with a pair of crutches.
All that changed when Benimadho was placed on a list for a wheelchair donated by the rotary. The organisation had received a consignment of 220 wheelchairs from the UK Wheelchair Foundation, a non-profit organization leading international efforts to raise awareness of the need and challenges of people living with physical disabilities.
Last Saturday, rotary presented him and 19 other recipients each with a new wheelchair.
“It has been a really difficult time. I went into hospital and my toe was amputated because of the damage. Then, because it was not healing properly, they amputated my ankle. And after a third operation, they removed my leg to mid-calf. This added pressure of not having a wheelchair was worrying me, but I had faith,” said Benimadho.
One of the biggest challenges Benimadho faced was is trying to do ‘normal activities’.
“Sometimes I have difficulties getting out of the bed. I wake up, thinking I have both my legs only to realise that my reality is different,” he said.
Enjoying his new found mobility, Benimadho said he could now “sit outside and enjoy the sun and fresh air.”
He said his new found independence and ease of mobility had changed his life.
“I want to inspire other people. That they must have faith and know that no matter what their difficulties are, circumstances can change. I was not mobile, but now I can get around. I can live a life as normal as possible with my wheelchair.”
Speaking at the handover, president of the club, Clinton Samuel acknowledged the work done internationally by the UK Wheelchair Foundation.
“Mobility is something many of us take for granted. It is key to independence, opportunity, and dignity. A wheelchair is not a piece of equipment, it is freedom. It allows a child, to attend school, allows a person to work and contribute to the community. Through our partnership with the UK Wheelchair Foundation, we will not just provide mobility aids, but we will restore hope, empower living and demonstrate the power of passion in action. Each wheelchair we donate represent the story of transformation, story of possibility.”