Help Hayley get to India
Hayley Halloway’s family is raising funds to take her to a doctor in India who might be able to help her with stem cell treatments.
A food and music festival will be held at Cosy Corner in Brakpan to raise funds for 11-year-old Hayley Halloway on November 4.
The young Springs resident had her life change drastically when she started becoming weaker and weaker and was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy.
“I noticed she had a hard time standing up, especially when sitting on the floor. When she got into the car, she would lift her legs with her hands,” explained Leonie Halloway, Hayley’s mother.
Hayley saw a paediatrician, who referred her to a specialist.
“It was January 23. I will never forget that day. The professor confirmed that Hayley has muscular dystrophy,” said Leonie.
The former active tween now has to use a wheelchair.
“The past few months were especially challenging because her mobility is severely restricted. She used to love running, playing netball and hockey,” her mother explained.
The family started the Hope For Hayley NPC to raise awareness about muscular dystrophy and raise funds for Hayley’s medical bills.
Hayley’s grandfather, Kobus Geldenhuys, arranged the Hope for Hayley Food and Music Festival to help raise funds.
Hayley has a rare type of muscular dystrophy, but there is a possibility a specialist in India could help her using stem cell treatments. The trip and medical costs for undergoing the treatment are over R200 000 and the family is trying everything to raise the money.
On September 30, the family held an awareness event at Zonskyn Tea Garden & Event Venue with the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of South Africa.
The fundraiser at Cosy Corner will see several artists and bands perform, and a variety of food and craft stalls will be available.
Entrance is R100 per adult and R50 per child under 12. To book a stall or make a donation, call Hayley’s father, Stephen Halloway, on 078 441 0737. Stall hire is R300 per stall.
