Woman wins fight with weight loss

A woman struggling to shed weight has returned home from treatment a bit slimmer but asking for help so that she doesn’t relapse.

Busisiwe Zulu (54) of Extension 7 in Alexandra who was taken in for treatment at the Christo Strydom nutrition clinic in George three-and-a-half months ago returned home last week after being treated for lymphoedema contrary to initial medical suspicion that she was suffering from elephantiasis. This paper exposed her plight in many editions over the past two years until help arrived.

She returned to a rousing welcome from family and neighbours after struggling to shed weight for close to 20 years, which she said started with small blisters on her lower body all the way up to her waist which never healed.

Narrating the benefit from the care and support she received and also looking trimmer after losing 23kg, Busisiwe said she looked forward to regaining her self-esteem and joining the rest of the freely-mobile society – provided she maintained the prescribed treatment regime.

“I was give a diet-based treatment comprising fruit, vegetables, nutritional soup and juice, and steak once a week coupled with non-strenuous walks around the clinic premises. I have brought two packs of the soup and bottles of the juice and the clinic has promised to provide re-supplies,” Busisiwe said.

Despite her commitment to maintain the prescribed diet, Busisiwe was almost moved to tears when stating financial constraints limiting her from getting her daily dietary requirements.

“I survive on a State grant and am the only income earner in a family of 11 children, their father, grandchildren and a helper. My income has to cover all household needs, children’s occasional school requirements, clothing, medical needs, transport and service bills – electricity and water. I hope this won’t make me to default on the treatment resulting in my relapsing,” she added.

Also struggling with arthritis, Busisiwe said her condition is made more stressful by the cramped condition of her house, her bed which is propped up by bricks, a toilet which needs to be heightened, and the need for a shower now that she can walk without help.

“I appreciate what Christo Strydom clinic did for me but appeal to other charitable agencies, individuals, government and the local councillor to help with my household needs like food parcels, vegetables and clothing in my current size. I am determined about my recovery but worried that it will take much longer without additional help,” she said tearfully.

Details: Busisiwe Zulu; 074 279 8030.