Family needs assistance raising money for life-changing surgery
The Pretorius family has endured a difficult 18 years since their daughter, Madelaine Pretorius, was diagnosed with tonic-clonic epilepsy at just 11 years old.
The Pretorius family has endured a difficult 18 years since their daughter, Madelaine Pretorius, was diagnosed with tonic-clonic epilepsy at just 11 years old.
Despite being on five different epilepsy medications, Madelaine’s seizures seem to be getting worse and happening more frequently.
There is, however, a chance to save Madelaine’s life by getting a deep vagus nerve stimulator implanted. This epilepsy chip will help prevent seizures from recurring in the future, at a cost of about R300,000.
“We, unfortunately, don’t have that kind of money,” Madelaine said. Over the years, her family has managed to handle her medical bills although it has left them in extreme debt. It is the first time in 18 years that they have had no choice but to ask the community for help.
“The medical aid only covers about R68,000 for the procedure, which isn’t even a third of the required amount,” Madelaine’s father, Charles Pretorius said.
Madelaine will get a second chance at life and get to experience things that seem normal to most people.
For the past 18 years, Madelaine has never been left alone because the seizures come without warning.
Even though Madelaine is almost 30 years old, she has never driven a car. Something as simple as making a cup of tea has left her with a concussion and severe burn wounds.
“She doesn’t have a social life,” Madelaine’s mom, Corrie Pretorius, said, trying to hold back her tears.
Madelaine also has two children, who struggle to bond with her due to her illness. “They are still very young and don’t understand what is happening,” she said. “They get scared whenever I have a seizure.”
“We would greatly appreciate any contribution from the community, big or small, because she [Made- laine] needs this as soon as possible,” the family said.
To find out more about Made- laine’s condition, contact Charles at 083 683 3802. All contributions can be paid into the following account:
Capitec: Savings account
Miss Madelaine Pretorius
Account No: 1698552791
Branch code 470010.
