Excruciating pain, nausea, swelling, discomfort and sleep deprivation are some of the symptoms that 22-year-old Wilmarí Bezuidenhout, a mother of two, experiences daily due to acute cholecystitis.

During her pregnancy with her second child in 2023, she experienced episodes of nausea and discomfort, which she initially believed were typical pregnancy symptoms. However, after the baby was born, these episodes continued intermittently.

“She would feel tightening in her upper body, get anxious, experience a rise in blood pressure and start vomiting. We didn’t think it was anything serious; however, about a year ago, the episodes became more frequent,” said her mother, Yvette Pretorius.

Bezuidenhout works as a controller for a local security company and does not have medical aid.

“It was getting worse. We took her to Evander Hospital, but they could not determine what was wrong,” said Pretorius.

She later consulted a private doctor, who conducted blood tests and a sonogram. The tests revealed multiple gallstones linked to acute cholecystitis. Once confirmed, Bezuidenhout returned to the hospital and has a referral for Witbank Hospital for November 11.

“Before leaving for her appointment, she must call at 03:00 in the morning to check if there is a bed available, as well as water and electricity. If all is in order, she can proceed,” said Pretorius.

Time is critical, as Bezuidenhout’s episodes are becoming more frequent. Waiting until November is not an option, and her family fears a gallbladder rupture, which can be fatal.

“With every episode, the gallstones cause more damage. She goes into complete spasms. We cannot bear to see her like this and not be able to help,” said Pretorius.

Bezuidenhout has also developed jaundice, liver and pancreatic infections and swelling of the small intestines. She struggles to sleep due to pain and discomfort. Pretorius said she is particularly stressed because her own mother died four years ago from the same condition.

Fearing the worst, Bezuidenhout’s family has pooled funds for her to see a specialist in Johannesburg. She was due for a follow-up at the time of going to print.

“Even without an active episode, I am in pain, burning, swollen and unable to sleep. In three weeks, I have lost 8kg. I still vomit,” said Bezuidenhout.

“During episodes, I experience shortness of breath, severe swelling, nausea, heart palpitations and burning in my stomach, shoulders and back. I cannot sit or lie down. Nothing helps, not painkillers or heating pads.”

Initially, episodes lasted around two hours, but they now continue for as long as eight days. Bezuidenhout describes her condition as unbearable and frustrating, affecting her life as a mother.

“I cannot go to the mall, plan outings or do anything with my children. I cannot even eat. It is traumatising for my children,” she said. Bezuidenhout has two daughters, aged two and four.

“I am old, I can die, I do not care. But she is only at the beginning of her life. She has small children and does not deserve this,” said Pretorius.

Expenses are accumulating, and the family is appealing for assistance with medical costs, tolls and petrol.

Donations can be made to:
*Account holder: WO Pretorius
*Bank: Capitec Bank
*Account type: Savings Account
*Account number: 1671899308

Alternatively, Bezuidenhout can be contacted via WhatsApp on 062 124 7740.