POLOKWANE – Dimpho Kekana (18) recently underwent successful surgery at the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Pretoria on July 25 to treat craniofacial plexiform neurofibromatosis, a rare condition that affected her eye and nose.
She was discharged on August 16 by Dr Mahlatse Mothibi, with her family and friends waiting to welcome her back home.
Her journey toward the surgery began when her teacher, Onicca Mahlaela, school principal Patrick Mosoete and Dr Mothibi Matlala stepped in to help.
Dimpho was assessed at the hospital’s outpatient department on June 3 and promptly scheduled for a CT scan with 3D reconstruction, which was completed on June 7.
The surgery, led by Dr Kenneth Segwapa, head of the plastic surgery department at the hospital, was successful. He commended Dimpho’s courage throughout the procedure and during her recovery.
Read more: Smile Foundation SA gives Dimpho hope
The Smile Foundation played a key role in ensuring the surgery was performed as soon as possible.
After receiving an urgent request from Matlala, the foundation mobilised to provide assistance.
Toni Jabour, marketing manager of Smile Foundation South Africa, said: “We help children live a life inspired by confidence and possibility, no matter their background.”
While the foundation arranged transportation, Dr Momo Mabeba-Matlala, Matlala’s wife and a staff member at the hospital, helped transport Dimpho and her family, providing additional support.
Reflecting on the journey, Dimpho’s mother, Evah, shared her gratitude: “The lump on my daughter’s face had been affecting her confidence since it began to grow when she was seven. It became especially difficult for her in high school. I’m incredibly thankful to everyone involved in this life-changing surgery.”
Evah, who is unemployed, said the community helped to ease the financial burden on her family, especially the travel expenses.
“God has blessed us with such good Samaritans, and now my daughter has her smile back. I hope Dimpho’s story inspires and gives hope to other children facing similar challenges.”
