Kempton Park residents and people from surrounding areas are being asked to continue supporting the family of three-year-old Peyton Wahl, who suffered severe burns after falling into a bathtub filled with hot water on August 26.

Peyton suffered burns covering more than 20% of his body and remains in hospital receiving treatment.

His mother, Sheramé Wahl, said Peyton was initially admitted to ARWYP Hospital on August 26, where he received emergency treatment before being transferred to Steve Biko Academic Hospital for further care.
“Peyton has been through so much pain, but he continues to fight,” said Wahl.

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The family’s journey has been complicated by an infection and fever that developed during Peyton’s recovery.

They have also raised concerns about access to the pain medication he requires.

As his treatment continues, the family’s medical costs have increased significantly.

The expenses were initially estimated at around R200 000, but the latest estimate has risen to approximately R698 029.

The family has launched the Peyton Wahl Fund to help cover his growing medical and recovery-related expenses.The community has already rallied behind the little boy.

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Within six days, 254 donors contributed R285 156, including R2 200 in offline donations, bringing the family to about 41% of its current fundraising target.

The target was increased to approximately R698 030 due to the extent of Peyton’s injuries, complications and the treatment he still requires.

For the Wahl family, the support has meant more than financial assistance.

On September 1, Wahl shared an encouraging update, saying that, with the help of parents and grandparents from Peyton’s school, the family managed to arrange morphine from another hospital to help manage his pain.

“We are so incredibly grateful to every person who helped make this possible,” she said.

Wahl said Peyton was able to have a peaceful, pain-free night, while she and Peyton’s father were also feeling better the following day.

The family said it is communicating with private hospitals and doing everything possible to ensure Peyton receives the best possible care.

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Despite the challenges, the family remains hopeful.

“Please continue to pray. Jesus hears us. We still believe in a miracle and trust Him every step of the way,” said Wahl.

Doctors have reportedly been pleased with Peyton’s progress, although the infection and fever have added another challenge. With his treatment continuing, the final medical costs could increase further.

The family said the response from relatives, friends, school parents, grandparents, teachers and strangers has helped them through an extremely difficult time.

Wahl said every contribution, no matter how small, could help ease the financial pressure while Peyton continues his recovery.

“Thank you for every prayer, every phone call, every message, and every person standing alongside this family,” she said.

Those unable to contribute financially can still support Peyton by sharing his fundraising campaign and keeping him and his family in their thoughts and prayers.

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The family’s immediate goal is to raise the remaining funds needed for Peyton’s medical treatment and the long road to recovery ahead.

To support the Peyton Wahl Fund, visit www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/peyton-kieser-burning-fund