Family still in need of funds for life changing operation

It has been four months since the Pretorius family reached out to the Herald to help gather funds for their daughter Madelaine Pretorius who is in need of a life-changing operation.

To date, the family says they have received R1000 which is really appreciated but unfortunately doesn’t bring them anywhere near their target.
The Pretorius family have endured a difficult 18 years since their daughter Madelaine 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. Her father Charles Pretorius says over the past four months there has been a slight improvement in Madeleine’s condition but she is still in need of the operation.

The operation entails getting a deep vagus nerve stimulator implanted, which is an epilepsy chip that will help prevent seizures from recurring in the future, but this comes at an expense of about R 300 000.

“We, unfortunately, don’t have that kind of money,” Madelaine expressed.
Over the years, Madelaine’s family has managed to handle her medical bills although they have left them in extreme debt. This year was the first time in 18 years that they have had no choice but to ask for help from the community.
“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.

This operation is especially important for the family because Madelaine will be given 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 trying to make 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 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 often get scared whenever I get a seizure,” she lamented.
“We will greatly appreciate any contribution from the community, big or small because she [Madelaine] needs this as soon as possible,” the family said.
To find out more about Madelaine’s condition, contact her father, Charles Pretorius on 083 683 3802.