5-month-old Leah Strydom from Westonaria in Johannesburg, is a tiny warrior who has been diagnosed with congenital hearing loss due to the uncommon occurrence of having different hearing loss levels in each ear.
‘Leahis such a delight at five months old! Every time she wakes up, her face lights up with the biggest smile, radiating joy and contentment. She’s always chattering away, and her happiness is infectious – being around her just fills you with warmth and happiness. She hardly ever cries, taking everything in her stride, which makes parenting feel effortless. Mornings with her are absolutely heartwarming; her smile sets a positive tone for the whole day. Leah is already so social and playful, curious about everything around her. Her calm and peaceful presence makes spending time with her the highlight of the day. She’s not just a joy to be around; she’s like your little partner in all the daily adventures!’ explains Leah’s mum Mandy.
Pictured above: Baby Leah Strydom
Leah’s story begins during her time in the womb, where unforeseen circumstances added a layer of complexity to her health. At 19 weeks pregnant, Leah’s mother Mandy was hospitalised with Influenza A. Concerns arose when, during the 24-week scan, Leah’s head growth lagged by two weeks, prompting a referral to a sonographer and then a fetal specialist. The possibility of Microcephaly, a neurological condition characterised by an abnormally small head size in infants, was discussed, but negative blood tests ruled out infections. Despite recommendations for DNA testing and an MRI, Leah’s parents chose to embrace her as she was, trusting in what they believed to be God’s plan.
‘As Leah’s parents, we were deeply saddened when we learned about her hearing loss. Despite facing difficulties during pregnancy, we were committed to caring for our beloved daughter no matter what challenges came our way. At first, we didn’t fully understand the extent of her hearing impairment, so we prepared ourselves for potential struggles. Fortunately, her hearing loss turned out to be less severe than we initially feared, especially compared to the concurrent concern of microcephaly. Without delay, we began learning about hearing technology, hoping for a positive outcome that would help Leah experience the world of sound. ‘ says Mandy
Pictured above: Baby Leah with her mum Mandy, dad Peet, and sister Mialeigh
Leah’s hearing loss became apparent when she failed her newborn hearing test. A series of OAE (Otoacoustic Emissions), sounds that the ear produces in response to external stimuli, tests and an AABR (Automated Auditory Brainstem Response), type of hearing screening or diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and brain stem in response to sound stimuli, followed, all indicating that she could hear, albeit not perfectly. The conclusive diagnostic ABR (Auditory Brainstem Response) and SSR (Steady-State Response) confirmed the hearing impairment, marking the beginning of Leah’s unique exploration into the world of sound.
‘As parents, we went through a roller coaster of emotions when we found out that our 4-month-old baby has damaged hair cells and severe hearing loss. It was tough news to digest, but we took comfort in knowing that there are options for hearing solutions. With the help of hearing devices, we believe she can achieve the best possible hearing.’ – says Peet, Leah’s dad.
Leah’s parents then embarked on a journey of extensive testing and medical examinations. MRI results came back normal, ruling out any brain-related issues. However, Leah’s right ear presented mild to severe sloping hearing loss, while her left ear exhibited moderate to severe flat hearing loss, resulting in an average of 39% hearing loss.
Pictured above: A happy, baby Leah
Crucial for Leah’s speech and language development in these early stages, bilateral hearing aids have been prescribed. The Audiologist recommends fitting them by the time she turns six months old. However, the financial burden of the hearing aids and the costs associated with the numerous tests conducted pose a significant challenge.
‘Leah has been wearing demo hearing aids for about two weeks now, and we’ve seen incredible progress. Once we have the funds, she’ll get her permanent set programmed. In the beginning, she struggled a bit with adjusting to them, sometimes feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated. But lately, we’ve noticed a positive change. She’s gone from being quiet and cautious to laughing and chatting more when she’s wearing hearing aids.’ – explains Leah’s parents.’ explains Leah’s parents
Quotes ranging from R35 190 to R53 705 for the hearing aids have added financial strain, leaving Leah’s family uncertain about covering the testing fees. This has led the family to set up a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy with a target of R372 462 of which they have already raised over R2 500 with the help of 6 amazing donors.
Pictured above: Baby Leah at her first Christmas photo shoot with mum Mandy, dad Peet, and sister Mialeigh
Their aim of this campaign is to raise the necessary funds to provide Leah with the hearing aids and cover the costs of the tests.
‘Thank you for taking the time to read Leah’s story. We’re grateful for any support you can provide. Together, we can make a real difference in Leah’s journey to better hearing. Whether you’re able to contribute financially or not, every bit of support means a lot to Leah and our family. With the demo hearing aids, Leah has already made great progress, and your generosity can help her continue to thrive. Your support will not only contribute to Leah’s hearing journey but also serve as a testament to the kindness that binds us as a community.’ they conclude.
UPDATE:
As Leah’s first birthday approaches, her family is filled with both hope and urgency. Recently, they discovered that Leah’s hearing on her left side is much worse than initially thought, making a cochlear implant an essential step for her development. The procedure, however, comes with a significant cost of R373,000, and the family is determined to raise the necessary funds in time for this life-changing implant.
Next month also marks Deaf Awareness Month, a time that holds special significance for Leah and her loved ones. They dream of celebrating her first birthday by giving her the precious gift of hearing, allowing her to experience the world in a way she has never known. The journey has been challenging, but with the support of the community, Leah’s family remains hopeful that they can reach this goal and provide her with the chance to hear the laughter, music, and love that surrounds her every day.
Lize Marais, from the Helderberg region of the Western Cape, embodies determination and compassion as she strives to keep the doors of Milkwood Learning Academy and their beloved Toy Library open. This academy is a haven for children with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, autism, and Down syndrome.
With a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, Marais is rallying the community to secure the future of 18 students by the end of March 2024, facing an urgent financial crisis that threatens the academy’s existence.
A Sanctuary for Learning and Growth
Milkwood Learning Academy, nestled in the heart of the Helderberg region, is more than an educational institution; it’s a place where vulnerable children discover their potential in a nurturing and accepting environment. Founded by Marais seven years ago, the academy has become a critical resource for affordable, quality education tailored to children with intellectual disabilities. “It’s a place where they don’t feel rejected, they feel safe and loved,”Marais explains. Her commitment to these children is unwavering, driven by a vision of inclusivity and empowerment.
Marais shares poignant insights into the impact of Milkwood on its students: “Over the years I have seen so many success stories. Children come to us with very high anxiety levels. Some were rejected by society, others were enrolled in mainstream schools, and were subject to bullying from other children. Many of my children can’t speak a word or read a word when they join Milkwood. Later they learn to talk, play with others, and even read books.”
Pictured above: Lize Marais with Milkwood Learning Academy students
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Despite the positive impact on its students, Milkwood’s financial sustainability is at risk. The school’s inclusive fee structure, designed to accommodate families of all economic backgrounds, has led to financial shortfalls. “Our goal is to enable children with special needs to live meaningful lives within their communities,” Marais says, emphasizing the need for support to keep this haven for learning alive.
Pictured above: Lize Marais with Milkwood Learning Academy students
Since the launch of the BackaBuddy campaign, 13 donors have come together to raise R15,581 towards Milkwood’s fundraising target of R60 000 to address their immediate financial needs, including rent and daily operational costs
“As the deadline approaches, the story of Milkwood Learning Academy and its fight for survival serves as a testament to the impact of community support and the difference it can make in the lives of children with special needs, who are the most vulnerable among us.” – says Bernelie Barwise ( Social Media Manager at BackaBuddy.)
To support Lize Marais and the Milkwood Learning Academy, visit their BackaBuddy campaign link:
Sané Wilken (18), a passionate cattle farm worker from Boshoff, Free State, experienced a traumatic event on January 25, 2024, which profoundly altered her life’s trajectory. While engaged in a routine task, pouring fertiliser into a motorised water tank, Sané’s thumb unexpectedly got caught and twisted in the bag she was using, leading to a catastrophic sequence of events.
Pictured above: Sané Wilken
Despite the immediate danger and her attempts to free herself, the machinery relentlessly twisted the bag around her thumb, eventually breaking her wrist, and ultimately resulting in the complete severance of her forearm.
While Sané says her life has been forever changed due to the traumatic incident, she is determined not to let her define her future. Showing remarkable strength of character, Sané told her mother, Corila, in the emergency room, “It’s only an arm. I’m still alive to speak to you, and this will not get me down.”
Pictured above: Sané with her mother, Corila
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Since losing her arm, Sané is diligently working to adapt to her new circumstances. Her greatest challenges now stem from everyday tasks that she once performed effortlessly. Simple activities such as tying her hair in the morning, getting dressed, eating, and playing with her cherished dogs have become notably more difficult.
While doctors estimate that it could take 6 to 12 months for Sané’s arm to heal, her mother has initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to purchase a state-of-the-art bionic arm for her. This advanced prosthetic, equipped with sensors that interpret muscle and brain signals, is intended to help Sané regain the confidence and independence she has lost.
Pictured above: Sané Wilken
Since the campaign’s launch, more than R80,000 has been donated towards her fundraising goal of R400,000, with contributions from 50 donors.
Having recently completed her agricultural education, Sané, who has dreamed of becoming the best farmer she could be since she was a little girl, is counting the days until she can return to the work that feeds her spirit, lovingly tending to the crops and cattle.
Reflecting on the accident, Sané says, “It was a freak accident. There was nothing anyone could’ve done differently. It’s no one’s fault. I’m not ashamed of my ‘stompie’ and will show anyone who wants to see my arm and tell my story.”
Thanking her donors, Sané says, “They have given me a second chance. I can’t say thank you enough for the kindness I have received. I’m taking life day by day now, but I know that one day soon, I will be able to live as I did before the accident.”
Monique Hayes, a vibrant 31-year-old mother of three from Marina da Gama – Muizenberg, was thrown into a whirlwind when a check-up in June 2023, led by the discovery of a lump in her groin, delivered devastating news. Initially diagnosed with a hernia, Monique underwent surgery only to discover she had an aggressive form of cancer—stage 4 anaplastic large cell lymphoma, which had spread to her liver.
Before the diagnosis, Monique’s life revolved around her family, filled with beach outings, road trips, and a bustling, independent lifestyle.
Image Caption: Monique Hayes with her family enjoying a pool day
However, the day of diagnosis shattered her world. Shocked and struggling to process the news, she grappled with anger and the existential question of “why me?” Reflecting on her journey, Monique expressed both the struggles and moments of joy amidst adversity.
She shared, “The emotional side of this journey has been a very long one with lots of ups and downs. My relationship with my loved ones was what kept me going.” Monique’s husband, his unwavering support, has been her rock throughout this challenging ordeal.
The treatment regimen has taken its toll, subjecting Monique to physical, emotional, and mental anguish.
She confessed, “The treatment has been torture.” However, her positivity to overcome shines through as she continues to fight for her life, motivated by the hope of a cancer-free future.
While facing limited community support, Monique draws strength from the love of her family and close friends. Witnessing her children’s happiness amidst her illness serves as a powerful motivator, underscoring the importance of love and support during tough times.
Despite the daunting diagnosis, Monique’s spirit remains unbroken.
She launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy in January 2024 to cover the overwhelming medical expenses that accompany her treatment. With a fundraising target of R100,000, the campaign has already garnered momentum from generous donors.
Image caption: Monique Hayes at hospital receiving treatment.
“Your generous donations will not only aid in covering the overwhelming medical expenses but will also help alleviate the weight of the numerous other bills that have gone unpaid. Your support, no matter the amount, would be immensely appreciated. Thank you for considering contributing to my cause.” says Monique.
To support Monique, visit her BackaBuddy campaign link here:
Bill Du Plessis, a 36-year-old data analyst from Boksburg, faced a devastating accident that changed the course of his life forever, leaving him with an amputated leg and the hope of acquiring a new prosthetic leg.
Pictured above: Bill Du Plessis
Six years ago in 2017, Bill faced a life-altering event – a motorbike accident which took place during a motorsport photography session that set in motion a series of challenges that would test the limits of his courage. The accident left Bill with the bones in his left ankle shattered and was told that he could not get an ankle replacement because he was under 50. This left him with only one option, to have his ankle fused back together. However, during the third operation which took place in a government hospital aspiring medical students who were operating on Bill, inadvertently damaged the main arteries in his left leg, casting an unforeseen shadow over Bill’s future.
“My life has changed a lot. Before the accident I was a very active person, running with my dog and playing indoor soccer. But, since the operation to fuse my ankle, I have not been able to run or play soccer at all anymore.” says Bill.
Pictured above: Bill with his dog Blaze at the beach
Fast forward to December 2022, a month that marked the onset of a new and agonizing chapter. The blood supply to Bill’s foot, the same leg that bore the scars of those earlier operations, ceased. February 2023, however, brought a glimmer of hope with a bypass attempt on one of the three arteries from below Bill’s knee to his foot. However, after wasting time and putting Bill on a waiting list for the bypass, it was too late when they operated as two of the arteries totally collapsed and were not functioning at all and the third one was so brittle that they could not attempt the bypass on it. A subsequent operation, just three days later, was necessitated by the formation of a hematoma under one of the incisions. The pain that followed over the next month was unbearable, leading to the inevitable – the urgent amputation of Bill’s leg in March 2023.
“We often take things for granted in life until they are taken away from us. Even the simplest things, like holding my girlfriend’s hand while walking, seems like a luxury now. My life has completely changed after the accident, and thereafter the amputation. I am no longer the same person. Everything is much harder for me now, and even the people in my life have changed. Some I thought would support me are nowhere to be seen. I have been on crutches for so long that I do not even remember what it feels like to walk. Although I consider myself a strong person, there are days when it all gets too much for me.” explains Bill.
The past 10 months have been a relentless battle, with wound care and physiotherapy becoming the norm, a painful routine that Bill endures three times a week. Amidst this struggle, tragedy struck again as Bill’s father, Marius Du Plessis, a pillar of support, passed away at 59-years-old in April 2023 due to heart failure, just 15 days after Bill’s amputation.
Pictured above: Bill with his dad Marius and his dog Blaze
Through the harrowing journey of physical and emotional pain, Bill remains strong. He faces each day with a determination that leaves everyone in awe. The gym has become his sanctuary, a place where he channels his resilience into daily training, embracing a healthy lifestyle that speaks volumes about his character.
“I wake up every morning at 4am to go to the gym. It gives me a sense of normality and allows me to push myself as much as my body allows. The gym is the only place where I have control over my body and can see changes and growth, both physically and mentally. I have always lived a fit and healthy lifestyle, and losing my leg was not going to stop me from continuing on that path. My goal is to inspire and motivate others in my position, to show them that they too can make a difference and continue getting stronger one day at a time.” Bill says.
Pictured above: Bill at his sanctuary, the gym
Yet, as Bill dreams of a future where he can run, hike, and simply hold hands while walking, the financial burden of medical bills looms large. The hope for a new prosthetic leg seems distant, with a quote of R126,500 standing between him and the freedom to move as he once did.
“I have been dealing with numerous medical bills for years and as a result, I can’t afford to buy a prosthetic leg. The prosthetic leg that I was quoted for will not only make me more active but also give me a sense of normalcy again. If I can raise enough money through BackaBuddy, it will give me hope and make my dream of walking again a reality.” explains Bill.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Bill has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddywhere he has already raised over R40 000 towards his R126 500 goal with the help of 12 wonderful donors.
Pictured above: Bill with his girlfriend Kathrine Robinson
“I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to those who have contributed to my campaign. It’s the kind and empathetic people who are willing to put themselves in someone else’s “shoes” that truly leave a lasting impression on my heart. Donating towards my prosthetics will give me a new lease on life and greatly aid in my journey towards recovery and increased mobility.” concludes Bill.
His pride and bravery radiate in the face of adversity, and his unwavering commitment to healing and recovery is nothing short of remarkable.
Greg Dennis (35), a group account director, and his wife Bianca (33), an interior designer from Johannesburg have embarked on a unique journey to welcome baby Dennis into their lives, through IVF.
Greg and Bianca’s love story began when they met in a nightclub in 2009 and after realizing that Bianca hadn’t really taken to him at first, Greg played the long game and crept into her DM’s to see how he could get to spend more time with her, and well, we can say that it all worked out in his favor.
Pictured above: Young Greg and Bianca Dennis during their early dating days
“We dated for about 4 years before I proposed to her on a beach in Cape Town. We were engaged for about 2 years and then we had the most beautiful wedding in 2016. It was only then did we move in with each other, bought our first house together, had fur-babies, and the rest is history.” says Greg.
Their story is woven with moments of joy, laughter, and companionship, but the missing piece of their puzzle is the sound of a child’s laughter. After getting married, Greg and Bianca decided to spend the first 2-3 years of their marriage enjoying each other’s company, and going on adventures with the plan to try to have a family a bit later on in their lives. But, the couple reached a pivotal point in their quest for parenthood as they faced a tumultuous emotional rollercoaster when they were faced with the harsh reality of infertility, and doctors recommended IVF as the next step.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their engagement photoshoot
“We can’t help but think that if we only knew that we would struggle to have a baby after waiting we probably would have started sooner. Becoming parents has always been a part of our planned life and not knowing the amount of hurdles we would encounter along the way is heartbreaking. But, if there’s one thing I know is that Bianca would be the most amazing mom. Caring, nurturing, a little crazy, but the best mom ever.” says Greg.
However, the financial burden associated with IVF presented an unforeseen challenge. So they tried other routes, along the more natural path as well as medicated. When this did not work out, Greg and Bianca spoke to friends and family and that’s where they were given the suggestion of crowdfunding for IVF.
“We were hesitant to ask people for money. But, others assured us that it’s a brave thing to do, it’s got a good cause and everyone would be open to donating. So we did it” explains Greg.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their wedding in 2016
Motivated and with encouragement from their loved ones, Greg and Bianca decided to share their story and raise funds for their IVF journey, along with a heartwarming and creative idea. They introduced a 1000-piece puzzle, where supporters could contribute financially and have their names written on the back of the puzzle pieces. This beautiful mosaic of love and support will find its place in Baby Dennis’s nursery, symbolizing the unity of a community that came together to make a dream come true.
“We came across the idea of the puzzle a while back and always thought it would be a great way to always think of the journey we went through, the people who supported us, and something for baby Dennis to remember how loved they are. We’re also a family and friend group that loves games and board games so it was quite fitting. We felt that with so many people wanting to help make our dream a reality, every contribution was like adding a puzzle piece to our dream, that when complete it would be a reminder of the support and love we have from everyone. Especially because we’ll be adding their names to each piece of the puzzle.” explains the couple.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
With the financial aspect of IVF being a daunting challenge for them, Greg and Bianca decided to start a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, where they have raised over R100 000 of their R200 000 target with the help of over 100 donors.
The funds raised will cover not only the IVF procedure itself but also the essential medications, ultrasounds, and embryo testing.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca enjoying a day at the beach
“We know that IVF is not always guaranteed and we know that everyone contributing to our dream knows this too. We’re really grateful for the love and support we’ve received. Everyone is so generous and we could never have done this without all of you. Baby Dennis will have a lot of thank you cards to write on their birthday every year.” says the couple.
Pictured above: Baby Leah Strydom
Pictured above: Baby Leah with her mum Mandy, dad Peet, and sister Mialeigh
Pictured above: A happy, baby Leah
Pictured above: Baby Leah at her first Christmas photo shoot with mum Mandy, dad Peet, and sister Mialeigh
Pictured above: Bill Du Plessis
Pictured above: Bill with his dog Blaze at the beach
Pictured above: Bill with his dad Marius and his dog Blaze
Pictured above: Bill at his sanctuary, the gym
Pictured above: Bill with his girlfriend Kathrine Robinson
Pictured above: Young Greg and Bianca Dennis during their early dating days
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their engagement photoshoot
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their wedding in 2016
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca enjoying a day at the beach