In a world where communication is key, five-year-old Lathan Wynkwaardt is fighting every day to understand the sounds around him.

Born with Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD), a rare condition that impairs his ability to hear and process speech, Lathan’s journey has been one filled with both obstacles and small victories.

However, his family is now seeking the public’s help as they face a financial struggle that could halt his vital progress.

Lathan’s mother, Cassy Wynkwaardt, describes her son as a “brave little boy” with a remarkable spirit.

“Despite everything, Lathan is full of joy, curiosity, and determination. He may not hear the world as others do, but he has a passion for learning, and he’s made such incredible progress,” said Cassy.

Life-changing progress through specialised support

At the age of three, Lathan received his first cochlear implant in his right ear, followed a year later by an implant in his left ear.

However, due to financial constraints, the implants could not be provided sooner, delaying his development during the crucial early years of language and speech development.

“Lathan had very limited access to sound for the first few years of his life,” Cassy explained. “It has made every step harder. But with the cochlear implants, he’s hearing the world in a way he never has before, and that has made a huge difference.”

While the cochlear implants have allowed Lathan to hear, he still faces an ongoing struggle to develop basic language and communication skills.

To make progress, he requires intensive speech therapy, occupational therapy, and a highly structured, supportive learning environment. This is where The Children’s Communication Centre has become a lifeline.

Lathan is currently enrolled in this special school, where he receives the tailored support and therapies he needs.

“This school has been a game-changer for Lathan,” explained Cassy. “He is starting to express himself more, follow instructions, and communicate with confidence. It’s been amazing to see him grow in such a short time.”

 A family’s urgent appeal for community help

However, the costs associated with Lathan’s treatment and schooling are mounting. The family has managed to settle many of his medical bills, but ongoing expenses are overwhelming.

The annual school fees amount to R110 000, of which R72 000 remains outstanding. Additionally, therapy and medical bills total R20 000, a sum that Cassy and her family are struggling to cover.

“We’ve worked hard to pay off most of his medical expenses, but the financial burden of continuing therapy and schooling is something we just can’t manage alone,” Cassy shared.

“That’s why we’re asking for help. Lathan deserves the chance to reach his full potential, and with your support, he can keep progressing.”

The family has started a fundraising campaign, hoping to raise the necessary funds to keep Lathan at The Children’s Communication Centre and continue his crucial therapies.

“Any contribution, no matter how small, will help Lathan get one step closer to hearing, learning, growing and finding his voice,” expressed his mom.

Those wishing to support Lathan’s journey can also follow his fundraising campaign.

By standing together as a community, every contribution and share can help ensure Lathan continues to learn, grow and find his voice.

Donations can also be made to:

Account details

Bank name: Standard Bank

Branch name: NO5 ON SIMMONDS

Branch code: 5055

Account holder: Mrs Cassy CL Wynkwaardt

Account number: 404280242

Account type: Savings