LITTLE Brody van der Schyff’s specialised treatment during the past 11 months has been a remarkable success, affording the toddler a chance to be a little boy.

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His mother, Samantha van der Schyff, battles day in and day out to maintain hope and resilience, and despite the financial strain, she faces it along with the rest of her family with determination to support her little one’s medical needs.

The mother of four thanked the community and all those who have supported the family, for helping Brody not only live without pain, but also contributing towards enhancing his daily milestones.

Brody was diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome soon after his birth, which stands for coloboma, heart defects, atresia choanae, growth retardation, genital abnormalities and ear abnormalities – and other medical conditions. He was further diagnosed with caudal regression syndrome, tethered cord syndrome, sacral spina bifida, sacral lipoma, flaccid neuropathic bladder, horseshoe kidney, bilateral cryptorchidism, kidney failure, and uncontrolled acute dermatitis.

“Brody spent 70% of his life in hospitals fighting recurring life-threatening bacterial infections, undergoing multiple major surgeries, including spinal surgery and having a tumor removed from his spinal cord, kidney removal, and vesicostomy surgery. His unbreakable spirit and constant smile inspires us all as he charges on through life with daily struggles that most of us will never understand, enduring constant, severe pain and unbearable itching,” explained Van der Schyff.

For the last 11 months, Brody has been receiving a specialised treatment known as Duxipent. The treatment comes at an exceedingly high cost, however, with Brody requiring an injection every four weeks for the next three to six months, with each box costing R25 000.

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“Brody had already endured an extraordinary amount of struggle in his young life but he still has a considerable journey ahead before he can discontinue treatment. Each step forward in his recovery has been hard-won, and we are determined not to let financial barriers undo the progress we’ve made. The thought of having to halt his treatment is terrifying, as it could mean reversing the strides he has taken toward better health. I can’t bear the thought of subjecting him to that pain again. It feels like we are constantly juggling between hope and despair, trying to remain optimistic for Brody while navigating the harsh realities of our situation. Despite these challenges, we are committed to exploring every avenue available to us, whether it’s seeking out new treatments, applying for financial assistance programmes, or reaching out to community resources that might offer support. His courage inspires us to keep fighting, and his determination fuels our own resolve,” she said.

If you would like to assist in ensuring Brody continues to receive the care he needs, you may do so via the Brody in Charge back-a-buddy campaign https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/brody-in-charge. If you are interested in organising a raffle or fundraiser, contact his family on 063 463 1107.

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