A mother writes ...

When Micaela came to us she was a sweet surprise. But, as we began to realise her limitations, we were hit with our own limitations when it came to caring for her.

We changed our lifestyle to be with Micaela and care for her. We home-schooled our two older children and took Micaela to ‘early intervention’ therapy. But the bigger she became, the more difficult is was to take care of her.

One day we were brought to the understanding that we were equipped to be her parents – but not her physiotherapist, occupational and speech therapist.

The worst day of our family's life was when we sent Micaela away to be at her new home. It wasn't long before we understood that it was the best thing we could have done - for ourselves and for Micaela.

LITTLE EDEN was where she needed to be. She was with a group of children who also lay on the carpet because they could not walk. She was in a routine that made her thrive.

Micaela has left us now, and by ‘us’ I mean both her families. We will all mourn her passing. But we will forever be grateful for having known her. LITTLE EDEN helped bring the sweetness back into our lives with Micaela.

Visitors' comments

LITTLE EDEN is perhaps best described through the following quote from Professor Traore, Lecturer in Traditional Dance, Conservatoire in Bamako (Mali), after visiting LITTLE EDEN recently and witnessing a group music therapy session:

“Robben Island was interesting, Table Mountain was beautiful, Cape Point was dramatic with the two oceans meeting and Maropeng was necessary from an archaeological point. But what I experienced this morning was the highlight of my visit. There is so much love from the heart, not just working with man or woman but with human beings. I closed my eyes to absorb in my heart what I saw, heard and felt. I will never forget this experience!”

In response to our Christmas concert ...

Thank you kindly for the pictures. They are but a small reminder of my experience, one which I can honestly say I will take with me to the end of my days. Again I would like to thank you for having given us the opportunity to share this experience. It has been a gift.
[Sandra Mendonca, Aon Benfield]