Mother’s birthday wish for Chadé …
Chadé has gone from 11.2kg to 18.3kg since she is on the tube feeding
SIX-year-old Chadé van Niekerk underwent a four-hour surgery on Wednesday – her mother, Charlotte’s, birthday – to replace the tube feeding through her nose with a valve that goes directly into her stomach.
The medical team also did another two biopsies, cutting pieces from her colon and small intestine to send away for testing.
Charlotte told EXPRESS on Wednesday that her only wish on her birthday was for her daughter to get better. “Doctors have given her an epidural for the pain for 48 hours and we hope to get the test results back next week,” she added.
Also read:
• Fighting Chadé get to go ‘home’
• Chadé’s family receives heartbreaking news
• Critically ill Chadé (6) admitted to Red Cross hospital
Chadé was diagnosed with Hirschsprung Disease after numerous biopsies two weeks ago. This is connected to the Hollow Visceral Myopathy (HVM) with which she was diagnosed in May last year. Hirschsprung is a disease of the large intestine (colon) and causes severe constipation or intestinal obstruction.
“She now has two holes in her stomach, one for the ileostomy bag and the other for tube feeding,” Charlotte said.
Other tests that were done on May 19 included a euro dynamic test, which is performed through a catheter, to pinpoint how far the disease has spread, and another kontras enema to clean her stomach.
“The feedback we are getting from the doctors is very positive and we are seeing enormous changes, especially in her weight, thanks to the tube feeding. The pain is starting to get less,” Charlotte added.
”We are still taking it day by day, but we are very positive and keeping our faith in God.”
Chadé’s weight has risen from 11.2kg to 18.3kg since she has been fed through the tube.
The family will have to relocate to Cape Town due to Chadé being in and out of hospital regularly.
“I have sent my CV for jobs here but it’s going very slowly and we are struggling a bit financially,” Charlotte explained.
”We are so thankful to everyone who has helped us to the point where we are. If there is anyone who would like to give donations towards food and petrol, we would appreciate it greatly.”
The family has accommodation until June 8 and anyone who knows of a place for them to stay, or sponsors, can contact Charlotte on 076-969-1864.
