Alberton real estate agent’s heartfelt gesture saves family home
Ester and Michael Boucher are dedicated to giving their daughter, Esmi, the best possible care.
The touching story of baby Esmi Boucher and her family has captured hearts as they face difficult decisions to provide for Esmi’s medical needs while trying to keep their home.
Esmi was born extremely premature, needing over 100 days in the hospital to grow strong.
The Alberton Record wrote about her and her family in 2019.
Her parents, Ester and Michael Boucher had tried for years to have a child before Esmi arrived, bringing them immense joy despite the challenges.
Recently, a kind-hearted real estate agent named Hilda Gailard learnt about Esmi’s situation. She decided to act when she learnt that the Bouchers were considering selling their home to pay for Esmi’s medical and therapy care and keep up with her school fees. Hilda felt strongly that no family should have to choose between a home and their child’s health.
Special needs for a special girl
Esmi’s health struggles began early on. Dr McLaren, a neurologist from Morningside Hospital, diagnosed her with cerebral palsy in February 2023. Cerebral palsy affects movement and posture because of abnormal brain development.
“Esmi was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) and cataracts when she was a baby, and it got better after treatment from Dr Pauw, an ophthalmologist from the Eye Institute in Pretoria.
“She had to start wearing glasses aged one,” said Ester.
Esmi’s neurologist also said she might be on the borderline of the autism spectrum. All of this means she requires specialised care, including attending a special school called the I Am Centre for Autism in Brackendowns and regular therapy sessions that their then-medical plan did not cover.
A lot of extra costs
Due to circumstances, the family downgraded their medical aid plan to a medical insurance plan with far fewer benefits than a normal plan.
Esmi still drinks formula milk and only eats Purity baby food.
“Esmi does not eat well at all,” said Ester.
She still wears diapers due to some brain neurons suffering damage because of the lengthy oxygen treatment she needed when in the neonatal intensive care unit, making it more difficult for her to potty train.
She also needs to see speech and occupational therapists weekly, which their medical insurance does not cover.
Esmi must also have check-ups every six months with her ophthalmologist, again not covered by their medical plan.
“My baby girl just needs the right help to live a healthy life. We know she can. We must just get the right help for her before the age of eight,” said Ester.
Taking care of Esmi comes with many expenses, such as special food due to her difficulty eating, ongoing diaper needs, visits to speech and occupational therapists, and frequent medical check-ups.
Even though her parents work hard, these costs are overwhelming.
An energetic little girl
Despite these challenges, Ester describes Esmi as a lively and loving child who brings joy to everyone around her. She loves to dance, enjoys music, and already has a sense of humour.
“You will just hear loud steps and see her dance as soon as the song, A Sky full of Stars from Coldplay, plays.”
Ester and Michael also said Esmi likes books and reading.
“As parents, you will do everything in your power to ensure your child is well looked after and has everything they need, no matter the cost.”
A big thank you
The Bouchers are incredibly thankful for the support they have received. They appreciate Hilda’s help and the generosity of Daleen Stapelberg, an occupational therapist who cares for Esmi without charge and has also arranged with another occupational therapist at Esmi’s school to continue the treatment when she retires.
Then there is Celeste Viljoen and her team at the I Am Centre for Autism, who have been wonderfully supportive.
How you can help
Hilda’s goal is to gather community support to help the Bouchers financially. If you are interested in helping this family, you can call Hilda on 083 244 1371 or Ester on 073 148 3625.
“The Bouchers’ story reminds us of the strength and love within families facing difficult times. By coming together, we can make a real difference in Esmi’s life and support her family during this challenging journey,” said Hilda.
“Your kindness and support can help provide stability and care for Esmi, allowing her to thrive despite her health challenges,” Hilda concluded.
WATCH: Esmi the miracle baby leaves the Clinton Hospital after 101 days
