Resego Lekgema (7) triumphs over life-threatening burn injuries at Netcare Waterfall City Hospital

Resego Lekgema (7) was rescued from a devastating house fire in 2023, leaving more than half of her body severely burned.

She fought for her life for months in the specialised pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at Netcare Waterfall City Hospital.

After six months of treatment, she made remarkable progress, eventually being discharged from Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital.

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Dr Palesa Monyake, a pediatric intensivist at Netcare Waterfall, explained that Resego was admitted to the PICU in October 2023 with burns covering nearly 60% of her body and 10% inhalation burns.

“Resego had a very difficult road, but from the start, she showed incredible tenacity. Her immune system was in shock, leading to sepsis and multiorgan failure, which are unfortunately common with severe burns. Several times, we feared for her life, but she pulled through,” Monyake said.

After five arduous months of care, Resego’s progress allowed the staff at Netcare Waterfall to celebrate her discharge. In late February 2024, once her breathing had improved and she could eat, she was transferred to Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital to continue her recovery.

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Professor Andre Mochan, a neurologist at the rehabilitation facility, noted that Resego’s organs had been affected by her illness, and her extended bed rest required muscle rebuilding and regaining overall functionality.

“The burn scars on her face, limbs, and trunk needed careful management, as healing scars can restrict movement and lead to disfigurement if not addressed properly,” he explained. By this time, Resego’s pain had subsided, but she was still anxious and withdrawn from her traumatic experience.

Jessica Erasmus, an occupational therapist at Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital said, “My first three days with Resego focused on getting a smile from her. It was not easy but our dance parties helped her relax.

“Splints were used to prevent the tightening of scars around her joints, particularly in her right arm and knee, helping to keep the areas flexible.”

Although Resego may need surgeries to release tight scar tissue in the future, she continues to show significant progress. Her mother, Rebaone, expressed heartfelt gratitude toward all the specialists and nurses at Netcare Waterfall City and Netcare Rehabilitation hospitals for their support during this challenging period.

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“We have been surrounded by kindness and prayers, and our hearts are full of gratitude for Resego’s recovery. Each day she improves, and our prayers have been answered,” the family from Delareyville Atamelang in North West stated.

“We, Resego’s parents, are thankful for saving our daughter’s life. Your dedication and honesty have made us stronger. This experience showed us that life is a rollercoaster. Through your unwavering commitment and sleepless nights, thank you, and may God bless you for continuing to serve and save lives. We love you.”

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