THE young girl who bravely battled numerous severe health conditions since surviving a near-drowning accident when she was a toddler, Miané Ainslie, passed away on June 7.

Her death follows that of her mother, Claudette, who passed away in August 2025 after also battling ill health.

Also read: Birthday surprise for little Miané

Miané became well-known in Amanzimtoti and beyond after several fundraisers were held in the area to raise the much-needed funds for her hospital stays and treatment. She also featured prominently in the SUN over the years.

According to family member Jaconique Janse van Rensburg, Miané died after complications with oxygen intake, which affected her vital signs.

“We, as a family, would just like to thank every person who loved and supported Miané through her warrior journey. We appreciate everything this community has done for Miané and Claudette through this journey,” said Jaconique.

Miané’s fight for survival started on November 9, 2015, when she nearly drowned in a portable pool at her grandmother’s house at just 19 months old. Despite not having a heartbeat for 45 minutes, hospital personnel were able to resuscitate her.

Also read: Warrior Miané urgently needs the community’s help

This traumatic event resulted in severe medical conditions, including microcephalic spasticity, quadriplegic cerebral palsy, global developmental delay, intellectual disability, pseudobulbar palsy, epilepsy, cortical vision impairment, obstructive sleep apnea, dislocated hips and scoliosis kyphosis of the thoracic spine.

After her mother’s death, who was her full-time caregiver, Miané was looked after by Jaconique and her family. The family included her in all outings and activities and constantly posted updates about her condition on social media. Since the death was announced, an overwhelming outpour of support and condolences was shown online by people from all over the country.

The funeral will be held in Witbank on June 13. Jaconique asked for the family to be given space and time while it deals with the matter.

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