Meet Janesto: A Journey of Hope, Healing, and Learning at Smiling Child NPC

At just 15 years old, Janesto is experiencing school for the very first time as a learner at Smiling Child NPC. His journey has been anything but ordinary.

Born into hardship, Janesto had his right leg amputated at the age of three. Until recently, he had never set foot in a classroom. Today, thanks to the care and support at Smiling Child, he is beginning to learn how to read, write, and understand basic math. Watching his face light up when he recognises a word for the first time is a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

We are currently in the process of arranging a prosthetic leg for Janesto. At his first physiotherapy appointment, a growth on his bone was discovered – one that would prevent the prosthesis from fitting correctly. He has since been taken for X-rays at the Somerset West government hospital and now needs to see an orthopaedic surgeon to have the bone removed before moving forward with the prosthetic.

Janesto is also significantly behind in both mental and educational development, due to his challenging circumstances. But with patience, care, and consistent support, he’s already making incredible strides. 

a miracle for janesto in just 4 hours

12 September 2025 Janesto hopped into the Orthotic and Prosthetic Centre of the Western Cape and walked out with a prosthetic leg. 1. This miracle started with him joining Smiling Child. 2. Adel an events coordinator did a fund raising quiz night for Smiling Child. 3. Olwen and her family attended. 4. Olwen knows the right people. 5. She takes him to the Prosthetic center AND Janesto who has been hopping around since the age of 3, walks out with a perfectly fitting prosthesis. All this in just 4 hours.

If you would like to support Smiling Child’s adventure in the community please connect with us through our Smiling Child Facebook page for details. 

Smiling Child NPC – Changing lives, one learner at a time.