The disease is an uncommon condition that affects the nerves and brain of a patient, causing gradual weakening of the muscles and eventually paralysis.
In 2015 Ilise realised something was wrong with her legs. By 2016 this had gotten to the point where she could almost not walk at all.
“We realised we needed to get me tested,” said Ilise. “We did every test you could think of.”
Despite attempting treatments for possible causes of her weakness, including a successful operation on her neck, there were no results. Ilise was then diagnosed with MND by a specialist.
Since 2016 the weakening effects of MND has severely limited Ilise’s mobility.
“I am getting weaker and weaker,” said Ilise.
She has lost the ability to move her legs completely and the disease has left her largely bedridden.
“I am in bed the entire day. The only times I get up is when I go to see a doctor.”
The effects of her disease and being bedridden have created a dire need for Ilise to have a specialised bed to assist with the complications that come with her condition.
“I don’t sleep during the night,” said Ilise.
This is, according to her, due to how uncomfortable she is being unable to change her position during the night. The extended times within the bed also causes further problems with her circulation and bed sores.
“We need to stack pillows for me to sit up.”
Help needed
For Ilise, a specialised bed that allows her to sleep in the correct position has become a necessity.
On advice from a friend who has been very supportive of her and her husband, they have decided to look into a bed that will allow her to be comfortable.
They have received a quote for a bed that would allow her to sleep in the correct and comfortable position as well as stimulate her muscles. The cost of the bed they were quoted for is R58 000.
For the Kriel family, the financial cost of acquiring a bed like this is an impossibility. According to George Kriel, Ilise’s husband, medical aids do not recognise MND as a disease they pay for.
This means the cost of Ilise’s medicine and care come out of their day-to-day costs. Despite being on their medical aid’s most extensive plan, their costs are barely covered.
The Kriel family wants to ask the community to please assist them if they can in making the necessity of a specialised bed a reality for Ilise.
“I truly think it will make a world of difference for her,” said George.
“I’m not looking for a luxury, for me it is a necessity. Even something similar to a hospital bed would make a huge difference.”
Anyone willing to assist the Kriel family in raising the funds or assist with acquiring a bed for Ilise may contact George Kriel on 082 331 2115 or send an email to krielgeorge@gmail.com
