Krugersdorp, Gauteng — Xonja Racheal Van Tonder (2), a toddler from Krugersdorp West born with Down syndrome, is fighting for her life after being diagnosed with two serious heart defects that are placing dangerous strain on her body.
Diagnosed within her first months of life, Xonja suffers from Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), conditions that now require urgent open-heart surgery. Her family must raise R400,000 to cover the cost of the life-saving procedure and related medical care.
A Little Girl Full of Joy
At just two years and five months old, Xonja is described as a bright, loving child who brings joy to everyone around her.
“She is one of the friendliest little girls — always smiling and full of life,” her parents shared. “She loves Tinkerbell, music, and trying to say new words. She even loves water so much, she would probably find it in the Sahara Desert.”
Despite her condition, her spirit remains strong.
“She loves making people smile and always wants the last say,” they added.
A Heart Working Too Hard
Doctors diagnosed Xonja with PDA and VSD during her early check-ups, and her condition has worsened over time.
These defects are forcing her small heart to work far harder than it should, affecting her oxygen levels and overall development.
Her parents describe the daily reality:
“Her oxygen levels drop dangerously low, especially while she sleeps. Sometimes her lips, hands and feet turn blue. She gets sick very easily and struggles to get proper rest.”
The condition has also limited her ability to live like other children her age.
“She often cannot be around other children, and she misses out on school activities and making friends because of how fragile her health is,” they explained.
The Surgery She Urgently Needs
After numerous hospital visits and delays within the public healthcare system, specialists have confirmed that Xonja requires urgent open-heart surgery.
Doctors at Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, Rahima Moosa Hospital, and Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital have all assessed her condition. After extensive testing, it was determined that the holes in her heart are too large to close on their own and must be surgically repaired.
Because of increasing pressure on her lungs and dangerously low oxygen levels, the situation has become critical.
“This surgery is not optional — it is life-saving,” her parents said.
A Journey Marked by Delays
Xonja’s surgery was initially scheduled for October 2025, then postponed to January 2026.
However, due to unforeseen circumstances — including illness and the passing of a leading specialist — the procedure was delayed again, with no new date provided.
Since then, her family has been left in limbo.
“We have tried everything — calls, emails, follow-ups — but we have received no clear answers or support,” they shared.
In the meantime, her condition has worsened.
“We had to borrow an oxygen machine because her levels dropped as low as 34%. Even now, we struggle to keep them above safe levels.”
A Race Against Time
Doctors have warned that further delays could have devastating consequences.
“If the surgery is delayed any longer, the holes could become inoperable,” her parents explained. “At that point, the only option may be a transplant — or worse.”
In the most heartbreaking terms, they added:
“She might not have a third birthday.”
The Cost of Saving a Life
The estimated cost of Xonja’s treatment is approximately R400,000, covering open-heart surgery, ICU care, hospitalisation, medication, and post-surgery follow-ups.
Private hospitals have confirmed they can perform the surgery — but require upfront payment before proceeding.
For her family, this is an impossible financial burden.
“We never imagined we would be asking for help like this,” they said. “But when it comes to our daughter’s life, we will do anything.”
How the Public Can Help
The family has launched a crowdfunding campaign and is appealing to the public for support.
Every contribution, no matter how small, brings Xonja one step closer to the life-saving surgery she urgently needs.
“We don’t know how to say thank you to everyone who has supported us,” her parents shared. “Even a like or a share makes a difference and brings her closer to a better life.”
“Seeing her struggle, while she thinks it’s normal, breaks our hearts every day.”
“If you can’t donate, please share her story. She deserves the chance to grow, to play, and to live.”
To support Xonja’s campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-us-repair-our-daughter-heart
