Brave Beth’s journey to breathe

Elizabeth (Beth) de Beer is considered to be a brave young woman who has shown strength throughout her Cystic Fibrosis (CF) journey.

Elizabeth was born in 2002 in Life Flora Hospital and from the day she was born, she had to battle lung infections and malnutrition that led to frequent hospital visits.

She was only two years old when her family came to learn that hospital visits would become frequent on a month-to-month basis and that she would have to stay on a specific diet that involved nutritious food.

The Roodepoort Northsider spoke to Beth’s mother, Héloïse de Beer, who only wants the best for her daughter.

“Beth was diagnosed with CF which is an inherited genetic disease that affects several organs in the body, primarily the lungs and pancreas by clogging them with thick and sticky mucus. The mucus blocks the tiny pancreatic ducts which supply enzymes required for digestion, consequently, food is not properly digested, and nutritional value is lost in the process.

“Unfortunately, there is no cure for CF and we have to take measures to make sure she has the correct medical procedures which are costly,” Héloïse says.

To remove or implant chest ports, an implanted device that allows permanent venous access to IV antibiotics, nourishment, fluids, and lab work, Beth had to go through several procedures when she was 21 years old.

“Beth’s condition has reached a stage where the less invasive methods aren’t helping her enough anymore. She requires daily pancreatic and antibiotics with every meal, in addition to physiotherapy and nebulising twice a day.”

Additionally, she was diagnosed with Type One diabetes associated with CF, necessitating ongoing glucose monitoring. Héloïse adds that she currently needs therapy with Trixacar/ Trikafta, which costs R5.5 million each year.

“We will need to raise enough money to buy medication and pay for our travel expenses to and from Argentina while the patents are up for review by Vertex. Given her expensive medical care and travel, any contributions would be greatly appreciated to support her. Monthly payments would also be very beneficial because treatment is not a one-time event. She can receive therapy if enough individuals agree to donate every month,” Héloïse says.

Breathtaking Fundraising is a non-profit organisation founded by Maré Smit who was diagnosed with CF at the age of three months. Years later she advocates for children and adults who have CF.

According to Maré, the current most effective treatment, Trikafta, costs roughly R422 000 per month which for most CF sufferers is an unattainable goal. Maré says they know medical aids do not cover the full costs of the medication and her organisation decided to get involved to assist Beth.

“We raise funds to support the South African Cystic Fibrosis Association in their pursuit to cover legal and administrative costs to create access to Trikafta at an affordable price,” she said.

She urges those who can, to help Beth breathe. For more information on how to help, contact Héloïse on 074 037 4886. Alternatively, visit the following link: https://breathtakingfundraising.co.za/o2-for-beth-too/.