Redstor, the leading global provider of cloud backup services and data protection solutions, continues to sponsor the TeamLife initiative involving executive leaders from the company who run with special-needs children from Somerset West-based Little Angels.
It is a relationship that was forged years ago and has strengthened with each passing kilometre and every completed race.
Most recently, Graeme Keehn, representing the company, celebrated crossing the finish line of the Winelands Half Marathon with long-time passenger and team member 17-year-old Aphiwe from Little Angels.
Aphiwe has cerebral palsy and attends Bizweni Centre for Disabled during the week, then spends weekends and holidays at Little Angels, along with 14 other children.
He is one of the physically stronger children, which allows Redstor to accompany him on more rough terrain events. Many of the other children have poor upper body strength, or in some cases, will spend the rest of their lives flat on their backs.
TeamLife has, to date, clocked over 800km.
As Keehn explains, Aphiwe looks forward to race day and he knows the race-drill by heart. "On chilly mornings, he'll get wrapped in a down jacket, gloves, beanie and a blanket on his lap... oh yes, the smile, and off we go. Snacks along the route play a very special role; it's a treat that they always look forward to. Along the route we'll joke, take pictures, throw high fives at passers-by, or even occasionally he slaps them on the rump due to his slower motor skills. At the finish line, he'll throw his hands in the air and just enjoy the crowd."
The chair that is used is a modified wheelchair and the team is sponsored by Redstor.
"Throughout the run you will hear Aphiwe chirping, and puts his hands up, saying: 'I'm a winner!' Back in the car on the way home, Aphiwe will always ask: 'When am I going to see you again, when is the next race?' This simple question is enough to make one press on," Keehn adds.
Robert Kellerman, marketing manager for Africa at Redstor, says the company is proud to be associated with this worthy cause and believes it lines up with the ethos and spirit the company instils. "As a brand, we believe in never giving up, in leadership through example and in going the distance. We are proud of our relationship with Aphiwe and Little Angels."
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