Hoedspruit mom pleads for help with life-saving treatment

HOEDSPRUIT – Crystal-Lee Davids never imagined she would have to ask for help, but today she reaches out with hope and gratitude, sharing a story of courage, resilience, and urgent medical need.

Last October, Crystal-Lee’s life took an unexpected turn. While working at a tyre dealership, she collapsed at work, prompting immediate medical attention.

Initial tests revealed nothing conclusive, but over the following days, her symptoms worsened. “I collapsed again at home, having a seizure. My family rushed to help me, and I was taken to the hospital,” she recalls.

After extensive testing, she was diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a heart condition that causes dangerously rapid heartbeats.

To protect her from future life-threatening episodes, Crystal-Lee underwent surgery to have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) fitted.

This device is designed to monitor her heart and deliver a shock if her heart rate reaches a critical level. While the ICD offered hope and reassurance, her ordeal was far from over.

On July 2, only nine months after her procedure, Crystal-Lee experienced multiple shocks from her ICD in a single evening. She was rushed to Hoedspruit Private Hospital, where doctors stabilised her condition.

Tests revealed she was dehydrated, and her potassium and magnesium levels were dangerously low.

The incident resulted in another ICU admission and additional medical bills that have quickly become overwhelming.

“I’ve got a wife and two kids who rely on me, and I’m just trying to get answers, because if I don’t, I’m not going to be there for them,” Crystal-Lee says.

Her determination to continue caring for her family is the driving force behind her fight for specialised care.

Crystal-Lee is now scheduled to see specialist cardiologist Dr Fontaine at Nelspruit Mediclinic.

However, her medical aid will only begin covering her heart condition after a 12-month waiting period, leaving her responsible for the substantial costs of consultations, follow-up visits, and hospital care.

Estimates for ongoing treatment already exceed R30 000, a financial burden that she and her family cannot manage alone.

“This journey has been incredibly tough, not only on us as adults, but especially on our two children, who have shown incredible strength and resilience,” she says.

Her story is not just about medical bills; it is about securing her future, remaining present for her children, and getting the answers that will keep her healthy and safe.

To help cover these urgent medical costs, Crystal-Lee has launched a BackaBuddy campaign. She appeals to the community for support through donations, prayers, and by sharing her story.

“Your support means everything right now,” she says.

“We’re going to the cardiologist on September 23, but we need money for the appointment, as well as if they want to do more tests.

That is why we started the Backabuddy fund to raise money to see a private doctor. The doctor who initially helped Crystal in Polokwane is very busy, and we haven’t heard from her since Crystal was admitted in July.

Every contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward medical expenses, specialist consultations, and essential care. Crystal-Lee’s message is simple: help her continue to be there for her children and give her the chance to receive the treatment she desperately needs,” said Caren, Crystal’s wife.

For more information or to donate, visit Crystal-Lee Davids’ BackaBuddy campaign page.