Multiple consultations needed before stem-cell decision can be made
Before a definite decision can be made whether Mienke's parents, Verna and Ryno, can consider stem-cell transplantation, multiple consultations still need to be done
MBOMBELA – A number of consultations are yet to be made before the Mulder family can decide on possible stem-cell treatment for their baby girl, Mienke.
Ryno Mulder, the father of the little girl who recently suffered brain damage said they were due to meet with a specialist on Thursday, but the meeting did not take place. The parents are considering the stem-cell procedure after it was suggested by a few people.
“As a parent you do whatever it takes to help your child,” mom, Verna told Lowvelder last Monday. “If it is something that helps her, then we can consider it,” she added. The infant was seen by an eye specialist on Wednesday, who confirmed that she could see. Her brain, however, could not interpret what she sees.
Mienke’s mother, Verna, made this announcement on the Facebook group, Please pray for Mienke, which currently boasts over 31 000 followers. This baby girl is undergoing rehabilitation at Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital in Auckland Park, Johannesburg. She suffered severe brain damage after she choked on her bottle while in the care of her day mother two months ago.
The eight-month-old is undergoing rehabilitation for 16 weeks, which may have to be extended, to help her suck, sit and balance her neck again. According to Verna, Mienke’s rehabilitation has had its challenges, as she gets agitated when she is touched. Therapists have used water therapy to help calm her down while working with her.
