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Help honour the memory of young Batista

Stepping Stone Hospice is hosting a memorial fundraiser to honour young Silvio Batista’s memory and to assist children like Silvio who desperately need palliative care.

Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services has found a heart-warming way to honour the memory of one of its bravest young patients, 15-year-old Silvio Batista, by launching an online crowdfunding memorial fund.

The initiative aims to support other young patients and their families, continuing Silvio’s legacy of compassion and generosity.

He passed away just after Christmas last year after receiving care at Stepping Stone Hospice Children’s Unit for five weeks.

Silvio, who passed away after a brave fight against a rare disease, was known for his unwavering spirit.

Born blind and deaf, Silvio was diagnosed with CHARGE Syndrome, a rare syndrome caused by a genetic disorder that affects many areas of the body.

CHARGE is an abbreviation for several of the features common in the disorder: coloboma, heart defects, choanal atresia, growth retardation, genetic abnormalities, and ear abnormalities.

Children diagnosed with the syndrome have a 70% chance of being alive five years after diagnosis, as statistics have recorded. However, Silvio lived to defy all odds.

He was known for his infectious smile and courageous spirit. His presence touched the lives of many around him.

Throughout his journey, the dedicated staff at Stepping Stone provided unwavering support and compassion, ensuring that Silvio experienced comfort and dignity.

To meaningfully celebrate his life and support the Hospice that provided comfort and care during the final weeks, a memorial fund was established through BackaBuddy.

The Children’s In-Patient Unit in Raceview houses up to 10 young patients aged 0 to 18 facing life-limiting illnesses, offering them specialised care and support.

The state-of-the-art homely facility has a profound impact on children suffering from terminal illnesses, their families, and the community.

Providing much-needed support

The memorial fund created in Silvio’s memory, who was laid to rest on January 4, will assist children like Silvio, who desperately need palliative care.

Beloved Silvio Batista. Photo: Wilson Batista

The fund also aims to raise financial support for Stepping Stone Hospice Children’s Unit to continue offering high-quality care to other children and families facing similar challenges.

“We are grateful for the extraordinary care and love the Hospice provided to our son. We believe this memorial fund is a way of giving back and ensuring that other families receive the same support and comfort during their most difficult times,” said Wilson, his father.

Sr Margi Bollman, Stepping Stone Hospice’s care services manager, said every child deserves the love and care they can give.

She said Silvio’s condition is one of many examples of the types of illnesses that require palliative care.

“Silvio should have been referred to a palliative team at birth; that is ideal. We got involved when things were not going well and he needed one-on-one care. We allowed Silvio to be himself and adapted our care to his needs. The memorial fund will assist more children like Silvio who need care,” she said.

They are targeting to raise R50 000 through the fundraiser, as this is what it costs the Hospice to care for one child per month.

Contribute to Silvio’s Memorial Fund through BackaBuddy.

Donations will go directly to Stepping Stone Hospice to support their mission and help them continue their vital work.

For more information on how to contribute to this memorial fund, contact Stepping Stone Palliative Care Services on 010 442 5059.

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