Operation Jumpstart Association celebrated the handover of custom fitted wheelchairs to learners at Mason Lincoln Special School (Emalandeni) in Umlazi, Durban, on Tuesday, 3 June 2025,
Arriving at Mason Lincoln School in V Section, Umlazi, excitement was in the air as the young learners gathered around to enjoy the events.
This school is something of a local legend, being only one of two schools where physically disabled learners can finish matric. Mason Lincoln is a public school registered under the KZN Department of Education. It caters for Physically Challenged, Autistic, Cerebral Palsied, Visually Impaired, Epileptic and Learners with Albinism and Multiple Disabilities. It is situated in Umlazi V section. The school was founded 1943 by the late Sister Mason. At that time it was operating under the St Anne’s Hospital (Emalandeni), now known as Prince Mshiyeni Hospital.
Operation Jumpstart Association Board Chair, Eric Apelgren, greeted the learners. He said, “Here, at Mason Lincoln, every learner is valued, nurtured, and given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. The school’s dedicated staff work tirelessly to provide tailored education and care, fostering confidence, independence, and joy in each child’s unique journey. Together, we believe that with patience, love, and commitment, every challenge can be transformed into a stepping stone toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Youth Month
Ms Sayinile Zungu, Director of OJA explains “At Operation Jumpstart, our mission has always been to uplift and empower the vulnerable communities of KwaZulu-Natal. We are happy to celebrate Youth Month with this donation to you. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, to grow, and to reach their full potential—regardless of the challenges they may face. These wheelchairs are more than just equipment; they are tools of independence, dignity, and possibility. They represent our collective commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind.”
“To the learners receiving these wheelchairs: you are the heart of this celebration. Your strength, resilience, and determination remind us why we do this work. May these wheelchairs open new doors for you—helping you move freely, participate fully, and chase your dreams with confidence.”
This donation underscores Operation Jumpstart’s commitment to empowering young lives and fostering inclusion in our community. To date more than 10 000 custom fitted wheelchairs have been delivered in KwaZulu-Natal.
Mrs June McIntyre, Occupational Therapist and former OJA Wheelchair Coordinator who has been involved with this school for over 20 years, has a few practical tips for the owners of the new wheelchairs:
“These special chairs are here to help you move around better, and enjoy a better quality of life. I know you have all been waiting patiently. This is a gift from OJA to you because we believe that disability is not inability.
Look After the Chairs
One more thing from me. Look after these chair.To keep them working well, remember to:
- Always use your wheelchair gently and carefully.
- Keep it clean by wiping it down regularly.
- Tell a teacher if something feels loose or doesn’t work right.
- Keep it in a safe, dry place when you’re not using it.
- Taking good care of your wheelchair will help it last a long time and keep you comfortable and safe. You’re doing a great job, and I’m very proud of you!
Wheelchair Provision Process:
- Application: Individuals approach a Department of Health facility, special needs school, or NPO to complete an application form.
- Assessment: Applicants are evaluated based on income, measured for fit, and special needs (e.g., inability to bend knees) are noted.
- Submission: Forms are emailed to the wheelchair program for review against set criteria.
- Training: If needed, Operation Jumpstart trains organizations on measurement and setup.
- Delivery: The supplier delivers wheelchairs, with costs included in the price. Waiting periods vary based on funding and factory schedules.
- Follow-Up: Random visits ensure delivery and adjustments, with therapists teaching maintenance and repairs handled at DoH centers like PMMH.
Enjoy the day in pictures at Mason Lincoln Special School with us:
