New beds for chronically ill children

Netcare Olivedale Hospital donated four hospital beds, 14 mattresses and 14 bedside trolleys to Marang House.

The house, which is based in Northcliff, caters for children between the ages of four and 14 suffering from chronic illnesses such as renal failure, cancer and diabetes. House matron Salome Parkies said, “We care for children whose parents cannot afford constant medical care, supervision and a suitable environment for them to overcome their illnesses. Government hospitals are not able to supply the ideal recovery environment that a stable home can for children needing long-term care.”

The house was founded in 1998 by the late Dr Pieter Ernst. In addition to meeting each child’s unique health needs the house also helps ensure that each child’s education, as well as their ability to establish friendships and engage in fun activities is less impeded by their affliction.

Netcare Olivedale Hospital general manager Bets Welman says the staff and management at the hospital were delighted to be able to assist the house with the donation of hospital beds, mattresses and bedside trolleys. “Children are very close to the hearts of everyone at the hospital. The house does outstanding work and we were all humbled to be able to help.”

The house currently has 12 children living on the premises and the children travel to the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital for treatment and schooling every day. “We are very grateful for this donation. We always need help and we thank the hospital for their kindness,” said Parkies.

Although the house receives most of its medical supplies from the government hospital they are in desperate need of testing sticks and machines to test the children’s sugar levels. Any donations of healthy foods – as the children are on special diets –, toys and clothes as well as any financial assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Details: Salome Parkies 011-476-6698, 073-577-4152 or salome@maranghouse.org.za