Brakpan teen’s condition critical as family renews plea for kidney donor

Tayla Smit
The health of Brakpan teenager Conor van Baalen (13), who suffers from a rare kidney disease, remains critical, and his family is renewing their appeal to the community for support.
According to his grandmother, Santie Botha, Conor’s condition is unstable, and he continues to struggle with blood pressure and oxygen levels.
“Conor is very sick at the moment. Nothing will improve until he receives a kidney transplant,” she said.
Conor was diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) when he was 22 months old. The rare kidney disease is difficult to treat and affects each patient differently.
After his first transplant in 2020, thanks to a selfless donor, Danie de Wet, the family had renewed hope. However, because of the genetic nature of FSGS, the transplanted kidney eventually began to fail.
The family now has new hope because a possible donor has been identified and is currently undergoing testing. Despite the uncertainty, the family remains determined.
On top of the emotional strain, the financial pressure has become overwhelming. Their medical aid has been exhausted, and expenses continue to mount – from hospital treatment and medication to travel for care.
How you can help
The family appeals to the public for both financial support and potential organ donors. Santie has urged anyone who is eligible to register as an organ donor, as it could save lives.
Financial donations can be made via Conor’s campaign page: www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/conor-van-baalen-5661700690121751995.
For direct assistance or inquiries, contact his grandmother on 082 959 0753.
The family remains hopeful and committed to supporting Conor through this difficult journey, insisting they will not give up until he receives the transplant he desperately needs.
Here are frequently asked questions on the Organ Donor Foundation’s website:
How do I become a potential organ or tissue donor?
You can register online or call the Organ Donor Foundation’s toll-free line on 0800 22 66 11. You will then receive a small organ donor card to complete and carry in your wallet, as well as a sticker to place on your ID document and driver’s licence. It is important to discuss your decision with your family and let them know that you wish to donate your organs or tissue after death. Ask them to honour your decision when the time comes.
Who can be an organ or tissue donor?
Any person in good health and free of defined chronic diseases that could adversely affect the recipient may be considered a potential donor.
Can I be a donor if I have an existing medical condition?
Having a medical condition does not necessarily prevent a person from becoming an organ or tissue donor. The decision regarding which organs or tissue can be transplanted is made at the time of death.
Do I need medical tests to register as a donor?
No medical tests are required when registering as a donor. Medical tests are only carried out at the time of death. This involves medical professionals evaluating your medical and social history, conducting blood and culture tests, and performing a physical examination to ensure that the organs and tissue are suitable for donation.
For more information, visit https://odf.org.za/