Queen Moroka, the beloved character portrayed by Sophie Ndaba on the original Generations soapie, has captivated audiences for years. However, in recent times, Ndaba's health struggles have attracted significant attention. Fortunately, the seasoned actress has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, earning her well-deserved accolades.
Last year, on World Diabetes Day, which falls on November 14th, Ndaba, who is not only an actress but also a successful businesswoman and media personality, took a moment to reflect on her nearly decade-long battle with diabetes.
In a recent interview on Itumeleng Sekhu-Pedi's popular YouTube channel, Ndaba bravely discussed the challenges she faced, including the hurtful experience of being body-shamed while dealing with this chronic lifestyle disease.
"As a child of God, I approached their hurtful comments with a different perspective. Although I was deeply hurt, I wished they had more knowledge and awareness about diabetes. I wished they had taken the time to educate themselves and get tested," Ndaba expressed during the interview.
She further elaborated, "I had people making derogatory remarks like 'she's dying of AIDS' or 'she's dying of cancer.' It's astonishing that something as common as diabetes couldn't prompt them to simply search online and learn about the condition I was talking about."
During the same interview, Ndaba shared her disappointment with the uninformed judgments made by others, who formed opinions about her without truly understanding her situation.
"Observers from a distance tend to create their own narratives about what they believe is afflicting you. They make assessments, draw conclusions, and publicly announce their assumptions. They label you without knowing the truth. It was premature because when I had the chance to address people, I urged them to get tested. I told them, 'You should go and get tested because, based on your appearance, you might be pre-diabetic or even already suffering from the condition," the 50-year-old actress candidly revealed.
In a heartwarming gesture last month, one of Ndaba's two sons, Lwandle Ndaba, took to social media to express his heartfelt appreciation for his mother's strength and resilience. He shared a touching note that read, "God decided to lead us on this new journey of life, allowing us to witness His power as He restores. The remarkable transformation you see in my mom? That's all thanks to Queen levol and God's divine intervention!"
He continued, "I am incredibly blessed to have this extraordinary woman as my mother. She embodies an unstoppable force. Let me tell you, with God, even the impossible becomes possible."
Sophie Ndaba's story serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by individuals living with chronic illnesses like diabetes. It highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need to combat stigmatization. Ndaba's journey towards improved health and her son's heartfelt tribute demonstrate the unwavering strength of the human spirit and the power of unconditional love within a family.
As we celebrate Sophie Ndaba's inspiring transformation, it is crucial to spread awareness about diabetes and encourage regular health check-ups. Education and compassion can help break down stereotypes and promote a society that supports and uplifts individuals battling chronic diseases. Ndaba's story is a testament to the fact that, with the right support and determination, one can overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever before.
