SECUNDA – Logan Dyssel was born on 21 October 2013 with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck.
His parents realised five days later that something was wrong.
His grandmother, Ms Georgina Solomon, noticed Logan was struggling to breathe and told his parents to take him to the doctor.
The doctor found that he had serious medical conditions and admitted him to hospital.
By that time his oxygen levels were extremely low.
Logan was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect that included transposition of the major arteries and ventricular septal defect.
He was only 13 days old when he had his first heart operation during which a shunt was put into his heart.
Logan had to stay in hospital to reach the six kilograms before open heart surgery could be performed.
He was eight months old when this operation was done.
It was successful and Logan was discharged from the hospital.
He suffered a mild stroke last year.
A CT-scan and hearing tests showed that Logan has permanent brain damage and is deaf as a result of the stroke.
He can not walk or talk and uses a special walking ring that was sponsored by someone from Johannesburg.
Logan now needs cochlear implants.
The cost is R272 510 per ear and he needs implants in both ears.
This amount does not include the hospital stay, doctors or theatre costs.
Hearing is a gift that can easily be taken for granted, but in a child like little Logan’s life can make all the difference.
To support Logan and help raise funds for the implants, a Country Boere Makietie will be hosted on 25 June at Makoro Lake Umuzi in Secunda.
Artists such as Renaldo Alberts, Stephen Curlewis, Charlie Nash, Jacqui Jade, JJ, Lisa Storm, Hanco du Toit and Leonardo, will be performing.
Elsa from Frozen will also make her appearance in support of little Logan.
Activities include a cash bar, inflatables, stalls, Miss Country Competition, bikers, cars and many more.
For more information, contact Pippa at 073 689 8896.
