TSHILULU – Four children of the Phaduli family in Tshilulu, near Khubvi, have lived a life of misery, pain and suffering since their single mother, Joyce, died of suspected food poisoning last month.

Their mother did odd jobs like selling fire wood and working at the fields to provide for the family. Now that the only breadwinner is gone, the children have no one to rely upon.

The eldest son Aaron (25), has since dropped out of school and does some piece jobs to look after his siblings, but the money is not enough to keep the family fire burning. Thinandavha (22) is doing Grade 12 at the local Raluvhimba Secondary School, but he is not certain of his future as his school fees have not been paid. Rofhiwa (16), is in Grade 7 at Makonde Primary School and her school fees have not been paid also. The last-born child, Phalanndwa (12), is in Grade 5 and heismother died while she was busy with the application for his child support grant.

Thinandavha explained what happened on the fateful Friday on which their beloved mother, Joyce, died: “When our mother came back home that Friday, she complained of stomach ache and dizziness. She said she felt like there were objects that were cutting her intestines. She had had no problems when she went out to visit friends that morning. Moments later, she started vomiting blood and she could not even speak clearly. She was taken to the hospital, but attempts to save her life were fruitless.”

Mirror is in possession of Joyce’s death certificate, which shows that she died of gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines accompanied by numerous disorders like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal disorders).

Aaron, who has taken on the role of breadwinner in the family, said: “Our mother was unemployed, but she could at least bring something home. Now that she has died suddenly and unexpectedly, we find life very difficult. How could our mother be taken away from us while we loved her so much? We now miss her love, tender care and humility. Young as I am, I am now burdened with the role of looking after the family although I am unemployed. Our mother was a single parent, but she did her best to raise us with love and responsibility.”

Although the family has two thatched huts and an RDP house, it is sad to note that the children have no school uniforms, shoes and warm clothes while the winter temperature continues to plummet.

Aaron said the family would welcome any assistance from community members because life in the family continues to be a bitter struggle.

Community members who would like to help the family with food, clothing and any other kind of assistance can call 072 351 0164.