A Primrose family pleaded with the community for financial assistance to cover medical and transport costs to Zimbabwe.
This request came after Yeukai Taruzandza, the mother of Eric Chinyanyu (15), visited the GCN offices asking it to communicate the request to the community.
She said Eric was born at the Germiston Hospital (now Bertha Gxowa Hospital) and was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
Taruzandza hopes a good Samaritan will help her cover transport and medical costs, so she can return to Zimbabwe to live with her parents because she is unemployed.
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She said the city’s high cost of living and unemployment influenced her decision.
“I rent, and I have bills for Eric’s medication, electricity, and food, among other costs,” said Taruzandza.
“I can no longer afford the cost of living in Gauteng. His medication can cost R400 to R500 a month, and I am unemployed,” she explained.
She said his condition had worsened over time, and he could not walk and do things alone like he used to.
“From the age of seven, Eric was unable to walk. When I worked, I could cover his medical costs,” said Taruzandza.
“I have always been his sole provider. His condition has worsened, and I cannot leave him unattended. His health is my sole priority. Going home would help, knowing I would not pay rent or pay for electricity,” she said.
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“I have tried homes around Germiston that can look after him, but none approved my request,” said Taruzandza.
To help Taruzandza, call her on 063 733 8235 or 064 033 9174.
About Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)
One of the most severe types of inherited muscular dystrophies is Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
It is the most prevalent genetic neuromuscular disorder.
Dystrophin gene mutations cause the gradual degradation of muscle fibres and weakening.
This weakness may start as trouble walking but gradually worsens to where affected people cannot do daily activities and must use wheelchairs.
Death typically occurs in the 20s because of respiratory muscle weakness or cardiomyopathy, and cardiac and orthopaedic problems are frequent.
The current treatment to avoid orthopaedic problems focuses on glucocorticoid and physical therapies.
