When Lulonke Ndebele was born with bilateral clubfoot in 2018, his mother, Philasande, was overwhelmed by fear. Her biggest worry was one shared by many parents receiving a clubfoot diagnosis: would her little boy ever be able to walk?
At just three weeks old, Lulonke began his treatment at the Greys Hospital Clubfoot Clinic in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This year we proudly celebrate our 11th year of partnership with the excellent and dedicated team at Greys Hospital. Since 2015, we have worked alongside the clinic team to help ensure children and families have the information, resources and support they need to complete treatment successfully.
However, Lulonke’s journey was not straightforward. He required multiple casts and a
tenotomy, followed by bracing. He had four recurrences, requiring him and his mother to return to treatment.
“There were times when I wanted to give up,” Philasande says.
Support through a difficult journey
One of the people helping Philasande to keep going was Phumzile Zondi, our STEPS Clinic Coordinator at the Greys Hospital clubfoot clinic.
“Phumzile educated me, encouraged me and helped me understand every phase of treatment, especially the importance of the clubfoot brace.”
Phumzile is at the clinic every week, supporting families and the clinic team. This ongoing encouragement helps families to understand the treatment and stay committed through over the required four years.
Graduation at last
In June 2026, eight-year-old Lulonke officially graduated from his clubfoot treatment after a challenging journey that included four recurrences and repeated treatment.
The little boy whose mother once worried might never walk is now active, confident and dreaming big. His ambition? To become a soccer star like his hero, Sadio Mané.
“I am so happy and grateful. Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this journey,” says Philasande.
Our message to families
Clubfoot is treatable, but successful treatment requires commitment. Every appointment, cast and phase of bracing matters.
With effective treatment, family support and commitment to completing the treatment journey, children born with clubfoot can walk, run, play and pursue their dreams without disability.
Congratulations, Lulonke and Philasande! We thank the wonderful Greys Hospital Clubfoot Clinic team and our STEPS Clinic Coordinator, Phumzile, for walking this journey alongside
them.
