MBABANE – A desperate plea for help has been made by the mother of six-year-old Abongile Dlamini, who is battling a rare condition known as Cloverleaf deformity. Nokuthula Matsebula has revealed that her daughter requires approximately E30 000 monthly medical expenses.
The costs could be expected to escalate due to consultations and admission fees which include a three day consultation at E18 000.
Little Abongile frequently suffers from nosebleeds and pain due to the condition, which causes the skull bones to fuse prematurely, resulting in a cloverleaf-shaped skull.
She was diagnosed with Cloverleaf deformity.
The condition is an extremely rare skull deformity that occurs when several joints between the skull bones begin to fuse too early. It causes bulging at the front and sides of the skull, resembling a cloverleaf shape.
During an interview the child’s mother, expressed her hope for her daughter to live a normal life, adding that she has never had a normal life since birth, resulting in her being in and out of hospital.
In an emotional interview, Matsebula expressed her hope for her daughter to experience a normal life, something Abongile has never known. “All I need is for my child to get permanent help and to be free from the pain she is feeling right now,” she said.
The condition has run her pockets dry, she said.
“I have been informed that from this month, the medical bill will be E28 000. It seems to change every year, which is about E10 200. I knew of last year’s fees and it is probably true that even next year they would have changed,” she said.
Despite her relentless efforts to seek assistance, Matsebula has found it challenging to cover the mounting medical bills.
Specialized medications like Ritalin and Rivotril, necessary for Abongile’s treatment, are often unavailable in public hospitals and can only be found at specific private facilities.
The Phalala Fund provided assistance once last year, but ongoing medical care is essential. Abongile requires constant attention, including the use of a feeding tube, which incurs significant costs.
Matsebula has sold personal belongings and is even selling food to raise funds. In a heartfelt appeal, she has reached out for help through this newspaper.
How You Can Help:
Bank Details:
- Account Number: 630504363336
- Account Holder: Nokuthula Matsebula
- Branch Code: 08883
Mobile Money: +268 78624359
For more information, please contact the same number.
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