Reiger Park’s Ashtenique Baron, a lively 11-year-old known for her infectious laughter and boundless energy, now faces a mysterious health battle that has left her family in anguish.
Once the heart and soul of her family, the Reiger Park Primary School learner is now weakened by a dangerously low red blood cell count.
Despite numerous doctor visits, the cause of her condition remains unknown, and her health continues to decline
It all began in the last week of August when Ashtenique suddenly became very ill. Her grandmother, Milda Blackway, recalls how sores developed in Ashtenique’s mouth, making it difficult for her to breathe.
“She was sick for two weeks, became pale, and struggled with shortness of breath.”
Concerned, her mother, Veronique Blackway, rushed her to the doctor.
“The doctor initially diagnosed her with sinusitis and prescribed flu medication. However, her condition only worsened,” said Milda.
Milda remembers a turning point when she looked into her granddaughter’s eyes and noticed they had lost their usual colour.
“I could only see white. That’s when I realised something was terribly wrong. We then went back to the hospital and confirmed the devastating news that she had anaemia.
“Further tests revealed a more serious diagnosis, aplastic anaemia, a condition where the bone marrow fails to produce enough red and white blood cells.”
For the next six weeks, the Grade Five learner must undergo regular hospital visits to monitor her blood count and receive transfusions when necessary.
Milda said she also needs a stem cell transplant, and doctors have determined that she requires stem cells from a biological sibling.
However, she is an only child from her mother and father’s union, making this treatment impossible through traditional means.
“We are now exploring other medical options, including private care, but the costs are overwhelming.
“Ashtenique’s mother, Veronique, receives a small stipend, while her father is unemployed.
“We are trying to raise funds to see a private doctor who might offer other treatment options, but it is expensive.
“We opened a BackaBuddy campaign to raise funds for her medical care,” said Milda.
Ashtenique’s condition has affected not only her health but also the entire family’s well-being.
Her mother, Veronique said Ashtenique had stopped going to school, and their lives were filled with constant worry.
“We just want to see her active and live a normal life. She used to love dancing when she felt well.”
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The family reaches out to the community for help, hoping to raise R50 000 to cover diagnostic tests and treatments.
These funds will go towards consultations with specialists, essential tests, potential hospitalisation, and follow-up care.
Despite the challenges, Ashtenique’s family remains strong, supported by their church, friends, and the school.
“We have a great support system, but we still need help.
“Her life has changed drastically, and we don’t know where this illness came from. But we know we will keep fighting for her,” said Veronique.
How you can help:
Your contributions can make a life-saving difference for Ashtenique. Donations will help fund:
• Specialist consultations with a haematologist and paediatrician
• Diagnostic tests to uncover the underlying issue
• Hospitalisation and treatment
• Ongoing medication and care.
Join the fight:
Ashtenique’s family is calling on the kindness of the community to help their beloved daughter regain her health.
To donate, visit the BackaBuddy page and contribute to Ashtenique’s journey toward recovery: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-ashtonique-baron-get-stem-cells.
For more information please contact Milda on 073 423 3608.
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