New therapy centre in Swakopmund for neurodiverse children - nbc

Parents of neurodiverse children no longer need to travel to South Africa or overseas for treatment, thanks to the opening of a new therapy centre in Swakopmund.

Beyond Barriers opened its doors in Swakopmund in August to fill the gap and offer therapy for neurodiverse children.

The initiative is a joint effort by mothers Manuella van Schalkwyk and Anthea Kostin, both of whom have neurodiverse children who have suffered brain injuries.

"So, both of us have had to travel outside Namibia for therapy for our kids, to give them an opportunity to thrive, to be as independent as they can be, and to live their best possible lives. But realistically, in the long term, it's unsustainable; it's financially not feasible," said Kostin.

Van Schalkwyk elaborated on the cost of such treatment over the years. "The amount spent on treatment, doctors, specialists, and equipment – we're standing at around N$4 million. Abigail turned 11 in June; she was diagnosed at 9 months. So, it's taken me 10 years to say, I'm tired; I don't want to fly anymore. I want to be at home. When I went to America and saw what those therapists did—physiotherapists and occupational therapists who are highly qualified—they got Abigail to walk independently and speak in sentences."

The mothers said there are many other children with similar potential to become independent, but progress is limited by a lack of specialised medical expertise in Namibia.

Beyond Barriers will also work with donors to provide free specialised therapy for children from families who cannot afford it.

The centre further aims to upskill local therapists and reduce Namibia's dependence on international experts.

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