UPDATE: Ballito mom on the road to recovery after sudden life-threatening illness

After three weeks of hospital visits, ICU, a seizure and even life-support, Ballito mom Lizette Steyn has taken a positive turn and has been moved to a general ward at Victoria Hospital where she is slowly recovering.

The 38-year-old mom of three has regained consciousness and is in high spirits, as she spends what hopes to be her last few days in hospital.

Lizette was rushed to hospital earlier this month after she was found unconscious in her home by her father.

Also read: UPDATE: Sashni to return home!

She was initially diagnosed with severe influenza, which caused pneumonia in both lungs. This caused her to fall unconscious due to severe lack of oxygen to the brain.

Her condition deteriorated to the point where she needed to be placed on a ventilator.

In an unexpected turn of events, Lizette began showing signs of improvement on May 18 and was moved from ICU to High Care and began breathing on her own.

After a few days back at home she took another turn and suffered a seizure on Sunday, May 27 and was admitted back into ICU at Victoria Hospital.

Doctors finally diagnosed her with Encephalitis (inflammation on the brain) which explained the confusion and headaches.

“We stand in awe of what God is doing,” said her sister, Chantal Kidgell.

“She is off the ventilator sitting up and laughing!

“Physically she is much better but they are keeping her on medication to control any seizures.

“There is damage to the brain due to the long period of seizures, so she is a confused and hallucinates, but only time will tell whether this is temporary or permanent.”

Community support

Throughout the ordeal, Lizette and her three children have received continuous support from family and friends across the country.

Although her family hope she will be heading home soon, the hospital bills are still racking up, as she does not have medical aid.

A GoGetFunding page was set up shortly after Lizette was admitted into hospital earlier this month, with an initial target of R30 000, which was reached in only four days.

After she was admitted back into hospital, the target was raised to R60 000.

Just over R40 000 has been raised.

“We cannot thank you all enough,” said Chantal.

“Our hearts are overwhelmed in loved.”

If you would like to donate to Lizette’s fund, click HERE.

To assist with immediate payments, you can donate directly to:

• Mrs Chantal Kidgell
• Acc number 240875192
• Standard Bank
• Ballito

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