An Elsies River paraplegic says he is in desperate need of an electric wheelchair as he has bad eczema and can no longer roll himself around.
Cecil Etson, 64, says after suffering severe pain in his legs in 2014, he was diagnosed with diabetes and doctors amputated both his legs.
The father of four, who was a general worker before his operation, says life took a turn for the worse as he was no longer able to work.
“It’s been eight years and getting around with a wheelchair has become a nightmare. I was always the breadwinner in my home and losing my independence meant a lot,” he says.
“Recently, eczema has taken over my body and it’s badly affecting my hands, and I need to use my hands to push myself in my wheelchair.
Cecil says the eczema is mostly on the inside of his hands which makes it hard to grip his rubber wheels with his palms.
“It’s a painful battle getting dressed each morning. I struggle to find my way to the toilet as well as to the day hospital to fetch my medication.
“I pee in my pants because I can’t make it to the toilet in time.
“It’s become so humiliating already, I just wish I could regain some freedom again because I feel trapped by my circumstances.”
Cecil’s wife also suffers from bad asthma and she’s unable to do much.
“On most days I need to go to the shop because she can’t, and it takes a long time because I have to use my hands to push myself to the shops and back home.
“I don’t complain about the fact that I have to go to the shop, but it’s a painful experience.”
If you would like to help Cecil, call 067 942 7590.