Jeandré Patterson is seven years old and dreams of becoming a soldier one day. He loves playing outside and in the water.
Jeandré has Chromosome 6p duplication, which means he’s a bit different from other children his age. This chromosome abnormality occurs when there is an extra copy of genetic material on the short arm (p) of chromosome 6. This does not take away from his cheerful demeanour or excited giggles as he explains what an ‘army man’ is and how they protect people and catch criminals.
“Jeandré was born prematurely at 35 weeks. He has scoliosis of his spine, a multi-cystic dysplastic kidney and kidney reflux, which means one of his kidneys isn’t functioning and the other one functions only at 55%,” explained mom Yolanda Patterson. Kidney reflux, also known as vesico-ureteric reflux, is a condition caused when urine flows from the bladder up towards the kidneys. If infected urine flows into the kidneys, it can damage them.
“We have been receiving medical care from the government hospital since Jeandré was born, but we are scared and want what is best for our child. The doctors at the government hospital wanted to remove his non-functioning kidney, but we wanted a second opinion. We were able to book an appointment with Dr Conradi at Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital and come up with a plan,” Yolanda said. The way forward, as she understands it, involves surgery to remove the multi-cystic dysplastic kidney and repair the defect in the valve between the bladder and the affected ureter. This will help correct the kidney reflux.
“My next step will be to find a specialist to help with Jeandré’s scoliosis,” explained Yolanda. “One thing I am truly grateful for is that my son is able to walk and talk like any other seven-year-old. He goes to a home school and does exceptionally well in his studies.” Yolanda beamed while looking at her son. She has reached out to the non-profit organisation Hemelse Pêrels to help raise funds to take her son to his first appointment with Dr Conradi, and for any future medical procedures.
“I am a mother who loves her children with all her heart. I am appealing to the community to help me help my child get better.” Yolanda has asked that anyone willing and able to help with his medical fees please contact Hemelse Pêrels to make donations. She has received an estimate of what Jeandré’s surgery will cost, which adds up to over R100 000. “Every little bit helps,” said Yolanda. Hemelse Pêrels’ number is 078 462 8503.
The Northsider will keep the community updated on Jeandré’s medical journey.
