Keep a Child Alive

Day 24 - Mikayla: Smiling for the First Time

Keep a Child Alive and Operation Bobbi Bear are both run by warrior women who believe in every child’s right to life, love and care.  Operating in Durban, South Africa, Bobbi Bear is a unique organization that rescues, heals and fights for sick and vulnerable children in South Africa.  Bobbi Bear gives a voice to the thousands of children it serves, many who have been silenced at the hands of abuse and neglect.

Mikayla is one of the newest children to join Bobbi Bear’s family.  Only three years old, Mikayla was left on the side of the road to die.  When Bobbi Bear rushed to the scene, it appeared that Mikayla’s parents had intended for her to be hit by a car, believing that no one would be willing or able to care for her in her condition.  Mikayla has cerebral palsy, and she is unable to walk, sit, or feed herself.  Bobbi Bear immediately took her home to their Place of Safety, where they continue to provide round-the-clock care for her today. 

Keep a Child Alive’s support for Bobbi Bear made it possible to hire an expert in special needs children to train the Child Safety Officers on how to properly care for Mikayla. Every day, the staff exercise her arms, legs and body and she has a special frame now that helps her to sit up throughout the day.

Today Mikayla, adorned with her specially-made little shoes, has begun to smile in acknowledgement of those close to her.  Having settled in well with her new family, Mikayla is given the love, attention and care that she not only needs - but that every child deserves.

Mikayla is another reason why we do what we do at Keep a Child Alive. Text BUYLIFE to 90999 to give $10 to help us continue these inspirational stories of hope, love and strength.

See all of our Daily Inspirations.