Linking from hell

I flew to Zimbabwe on Friday with my electric wheelchair, as I’m unable to walk due to both hips and my left arm not functioning — I’m severely disabled. On Monday, I flew back with Airlink, but the pilot refused to allow the wheelchair battery on board, despite my explaining that I rely completely on this wheelchair for mobility. As a result, the battery was left behind in Zimbabwe.

When I arrived back in South Africa, I discovered that my wheelchair had been damaged. I’m devastated. It feels like Airlink took away my legs all over again.

This experience has been deeply traumatic. It raises the question — does Airlink not want disabled people on their aircraft? I would not advise any person with a disability to fly with Airlink. They showed no understanding, no compassion, and ultimately destroyed the equipment that gives me independence and dignity.