Coenie Chiari Malformation Journey

Started 2 months ago

Open end-date

R 157 859
0%
of R 400 000 goal
R 25 500
Offline donations
31
Unique donors
STORY

About This Campaign

organiser-empty-profile-picture
Elsje Van der Merwe
Organiser
1 
BaB campaign
Location
PRETORIA
South Africa
Location
Started 2 months ago
Open end-date

Dear Friends and Family,

 

We find ourselves reaching out in a time of need for our 12-year-old son, who has faced a challenging journey since an accident during a high jump in January 2025. Initially, we thought his severe headaches were just a temporary issue, but they persisted, leading us on a complex path of medical consultations and heartbreaking discoveries.

 

After an MRI, we were referred to a paediatric neurologist at Wilgers Hospital, where our son's discomfort was finally diagnosed as Arnold Chiari Malformation Type 1. This rare condition means that part of his brain extends into his spinal canal, causing severe headaches, trouble swallowing, and crippling leg pain—symptoms that have turned his once vibrant childhood into a struggle.

 

Despite trying various medications and therapies, his condition deteriorated, impacting his school work and daily activities. He lost his joy in sports, unable to play his favourite game of rugby and struggling to keep up with friends in cricket and softball. Each day is a reminder of ho...

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Campaign Updates

E. Van der Merwe 26 Aug '26
Coenie’s Journey to Barcelona ❤️ A little update on Coenie’s journey… Yesterday, we completed our visa application. It was a very long day, but we are grateful for this step forward. 🙏✈️ We want...

E. Van der Merwe 16 Aug '26
We would like to share a little feedback and an update on our journey.We are very grateful to say that our flights and accommodation have now been paid for, and we have also made a payment to the Chi...

E. Van der Merwe 7 Aug '26
We would like to share an update. We have secured our appointments for our visa applications in the coming weeks. The Institute has assisted us in arranging accommodation and transport. We would als...

E. Van der Merwe 1 Aug '26
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to every sponsor, every prayer, every share, and all the support we have received in various forms. We feel truly blessed to have such amazing people i...
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