On Wednesday, 3 December, Renishaw Hills had the privilege of hosting Muzi Fodo, a dedicated activist for disabled individuals. As part of his remarkable 190km journey from Harding to Durban, Muzi arrived in Scottburgh on his mission to raise awareness for accessibility and fund active wheelchairs for those in need through his campaign, ‘Diffabled, Not Disabled’.
Barto van der Merwe, Managing Director of Renishaw Property Developments, said: “We were honoured to host Muzi and his team for the evening. His journey is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the impact a supportive community can have. At Renishaw Hills, we are proud to be part of a network that celebrates resilience and inclusivity.”
Since a motor vehicle accident in 2013 left him paralysed, Muzi has refused to let his disability define him. Instead, he has dedicated himself to promoting dignity, independence, and mobility for what he terms ‘diffabled’ individuals. The active wheelchairs he is fundraising for are lightweight, agile, and custom-fitted, enabling recipients to navigate life with freedom, pursue education, work, and engage in recreational activities.
Muzi said while the first leg from Harding to Paddock had been tiring, he picked up momentum in the second leg from Paddock to Port Shepstone, with lots of support along the way: “People have already pledged to donate a number of wheelchairs, so we’re on target. We hope to raise enough to buy 50 wheelchairs.”
He said this was not about the distance, but a ‘call to action’: “This is not just for me, but for every diffabled person who deserves opportunity and respect.”
Sue Martin, resident of the mature lifestyle village, Renishaw Hills, spearheaded the support with the help of local councillor, Dana Daniels. Renishaw Hills has sponsored accommodation for Muzi and his support team, while neighbours at the Blue Marlin Hotel generously provided dinner. Residents and members of the Scottburgh community also turned out to welcome Muzi with heartfelt support.
A freak mountain bike accident some years back also left Sue in a wheelchair; however, like Muzi, she continues to live a life of adventure, always overcoming the odds. Having read about Muzi’s story, she jumped at the opportunity to get involved.
“Being in a wheelchair myself, it is so admirable to see a fellow diffabled person do something, rather than just sit. We didn’t die, so God knows we still have much to offer. I collect bread tags and bottle tops on behalf of Sweethearts Foundation for specialised wheelchairs, which is the same result as Muzi, just less strenuous! Being given a wheelchair changes not only the person in need’s life, but their family, friends, and community. Muzi is a very special child of God and needs to be supported!”
When they arrive in Amanzimtoti, Wesley Smith of Wheels on Waves will take Muzi out in the ocean on a Sandcruiser – floating wheelchairs that allow disabled users to experience the ocean – with 305 Guest House sponsoring dinner and accommodation. They will receive a hearty breakfast from Thirsty Whale before continuing their journey.
Van der Merwe concluded, “Events like this underscore Renishaw Hills’ commitment to community engagement and social impact, reinforcing its role as a mature lifestyle estate where residents, neighbours, and visitors come together to make a tangible difference.”
Muzi Fodo’s route:
- Day 1: Harding to Paddock
- Day 2: Paddock to Port Shepstone
- Day 3: Port Shepstone to Scottburgh
- Day 4: Scottburgh to Durban (Amanzimtoti)
For more information on Muzi Fodo’s journey or to contribute to the Diffabled, Not Disabled campaign, contact Muzi directly at 076 266 7047 or visit his social platforms.
Get in touch!
Far from being just an active retirement community, Renishaw Hills in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast is a premier mature lifestyle estate for individuals over 50, offering a vibrant lifestyle. For more details about Renishaw Hills or to arrange a tour, contact Kelly at 064 198 2693, email sales@renishawhills.co.za, or visit www.renishawhills.co.za. Check out the available units at Renishaw Hills: https://renishawhills.co.za/available-units/.
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Renishaw Hills.
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