Local family needs help with daughter’s life-saving surgery
The eight-year-old Amore requires heart surgery as soon as possible.
The family of Albie Smit, a beloved local Santa Claus known for spreading joy and cheer to children in the community, now needs kindness and generosity after their daughter, Amore, was diagnosed with a heart condition requiring immediate surgery.
In 2023, eight-year-old Amore was diagnosed with atrial septal defect (ASD), a condition when holes develop in the heart.
Initially, doctors discovered one hole, but a follow-up in 2024 revealed two holes in her heart.
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Her mother, Anel Smit, said the doctors told them she urgently needed surgery to prevent the condition from worsening.
“My little girl has a smile that lights up the room and a spirit too big for her tiny frame, but inside her chest beats a heart with a hole,” said Smit.
“ASD makes every breath a little harder and every day a little more uncertain. As parents, we want to protect our children from every hurt, every fear, and every pain. But what if your child was born with a broken heart, one that medicine could mend but finances could not?”
Amore is a Grade Three learner at Laerskool Impala who dreams of becoming a veterinarian. However, her health condition prevents her from fully enjoying the life of a child.
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Her diagnosis was unexpected. In 2023, while the family was sitting in the lounge, Smit heard a strange sound and learnt from one of her daughters that it came from Amore.
“I quickly rushed her to our family doctor for a check-up, and he referred us to a cardiologist in Sunninghill,” recalled Smit.
“It was frightening to hear that sound, especially since we are a healthy family. Amore was only six when diagnosed, while most children get diagnosed at birth.”
Despite their best efforts to save money, the high cost of living has made it difficult for the family to afford the surgery, which is estimated to cost R192 000.
The family has launched a campaign to raise the funds.
“We know the operation is not immediate, but it is essential to prevent complications like shortness of breath and heart palpitations.
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“We hope to raise enough funds by September to ensure Amore gets the surgery she desperately needs,” Smit said.
The doctor has assured the family that the operation will be successful and Amore will lead a healthy life, with only yearly check-ups required thereafter.
A Back a Buddy campaign has been set up, and the family is exploring government hospitals as a potential option. Any additional funds raised will support other campaigns.
A lucky draw for a hamper is being organised, with all funds raised being deposited into a separate bank account to ensure transparency.
The main expenses will cover the cost of the surgery and in-hospital care. Fortunately, the family lives near the hospital, reducing additional travel costs.
In addition to the fundraising campaign, the family is designing and selling art to contribute towards the surgery fund.
Those who wish to contribute to Amore’s surgery may contact Albie on 082 476 2280 or stoffelinasmit@gmail.com
