From rescue to recovery, thriving against the odds

How love and compassion gave Thato a second chance in life

Thato’s story is a moving testament to the resilience of a little boy and how the power of love and compassion in the face of adversity can be truly life changing. 

Thato lived with his mum in a village in south Lesotho, a country bordering South Africa. They quietly struggled, living in a place where poverty was a constant and unforgiving companion.

In his first year of life, Thato was a healthy boy and like any other child in the community. He reached his early milestones without any challenges, showing a bright future ahead of him. However, at the age of two, his world crumbled when he lost his mother and was left in the care of his aunts.

On the brink of death

Shortly after the loss of his mum, Thato was diagnosed with a deteriorating medical condition, and his family, already dealing with the daily hardships of life, found it increasingly difficult to provide the necessary care as his condition worsened. Eventually, he lost his ability to walk and speak. Thato was neglected, deprived of the much needed love and care of his family. Suffering from severe malnutrition, and almost too weak to survive, his life was ebbing away.

But, in the middle of such a desperate situation, there was hope. World Vision community worker Nkoseanele, found Thato and immediately rushed him to a nearby hospital, acutely aware of the urgency of the situation.

The medical professionals there embarked on a relentless mission to give Thato a fighting chance of survival. “When Thato was admitted he was a fragile child, at the brink of death. It was a race against time,” recalls Hopolang Lentsa, a World Vision health professional.

Thato's fighting spirit

Under the dedicated care, love and compassion of the hospital staff, and unwavering support of Hangane, Thato began his miraculous journey of recovery. In those four weeks, Thato’s weight increased, and with the help of rehabilitation services, he learned to walk again.

But his recovery was much more than just physical. Thato discovered his voice, his spirit, his love for life. His resilience and fighting spirit were a remarkable testament to those who witnessed his amazing transformation.

Now aged 13, Thato lives with his brother, sister-in-law and cousin, with World Vision staff walking alongside him, making sure that he is well taken care of.  He continues to receive regular health checks, monthly nutritious food packages, psychosocial support and time to play. Thato’s future is no longer bleak and shrouded in despair, but one filled with promise and potential. He is proof of the fact that with enough nourishing food, enough love and compassion, children can not only survive but thrive.

ENOUGH! End child hunger now

Thato’s story highlights the devastating impact of hunger and malnutrition on children’s lives. We believe there is ENOUGH in this world for every child, no matter where they live, or the crises they face, to have the nourishing food they need to thrive and for families to be more resilient.

Thanks to your support, more children like Thato will have the opportunity to live the life that they deserve, one where they can thrive and reach their God given potential.