HOEDSPRUIT – The Matthysen family is facing a critical phase in the ongoing treatment of Troy Matthysen (17) after doctors confirmed that his tumour has returned and significantly progressed.

Specialists reviewing scans spanning the past four years, alongside recent imaging, have reported notable growth of the tumour, which has been diagnosed as Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma (JNA), a rare condition that, while classified as benign, is known for aggressive behaviour due to its location in the head and neck region.

Medical teams are now considering radiation therapy as the next step in treatment.

However, final decisions remain pending as clinicians await detailed records of Troy’s previous medical interventions to ensure that any further radiation exposure is carefully managed to reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Tumour affecting eye sockets, nerves and brain

The tumour is understood to be affecting multiple critical areas, including the eye sockets, facial nerves and frontal lobe, resulting in a range of symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, mood changes and deteriorating vision on the right side. Persistent minor bleeding has also been reported.

Doctors have expressed concern over the tumour’s bleeding tendency, with the risk of severe haemorrhage identified as a primary threat.

Radiation therapy as the next step

Surgical intervention has been ruled out due to the high-risk nature of the tumour’s location.

“The oncologist has confirmed he needs radiation to stop the tumour from bleeding and to try and kill it,” said Troy’s father, Jeff Matthysen. “At the moment it is causing a lot of damage to his eye sockets, nerves, and brain area, and the bleeding is the biggest concern.”

He added that further consultations are underway, with appointments scheduled with specialists next week to finalise treatment planning.

Bleeding could be fatal

“The tumour is deep, and doctors have said if the bleeding becomes uncontrollable, it could be fatal because of how excessive it is,” he said.

“We are working through the next steps with the medical team.”

Community plans auction and raffle

In response to the family’s situation, a coordinated community support effort has begun to assist with mounting medical costs.

Local organisers are engaging with a non-profit organisation to formalise fundraising efforts and streamline donations from businesses and private contributors.

Initiatives under consideration include a community auction featuring donated goods and services, as well as a raffle aimed at widening public participation in fundraising efforts.

Outreach is also being extended to agricultural producers, corporate sponsors and local enterprises.

Despite the challenges, the Matthysen family has expressed gratitude for the support received thus far.

“We appreciate everything the community has done for us,” Matthysen said. “Right now our focus is on stabilising Troy and making the best possible decisions with the information we have.”

Medical teams are expected to provide further recommendations once outstanding records and test results have been fully reviewed.