A fourteen-month-old Toti girl was diagnosed with a tumour on the brain and she needs the public’s help to win this fight.
Emma, the daughter of Michael and Tanya de Vries, was diagnosed at the beginning of April.
In an operation that lasted nearly eight hours, 95% of the tumour was removed. “The other 5% could not be removed as this fell over her brain stem and removing this could have left her paralysed,” said Tanya.
A week after the operation her parents received the devastating news that the growth was malignant. “The oncologist suggested a port be inserted into Emma in order to administer chemotherapy over the next few months.” In this case, radiation would be the ideal treatment, but due to her young age, this is not possible until she reaches three years.
“Emma was discharged from hospital recently, but she has not been well since and has suffered a number of high fevers. She needs to be in completely good health before the doctor performs the operation to put the port in.”
Emma is a little fighter and has been getting stronger by the day. She is an adorable, beautiful child who could light up a room with her cheeky, but shy smile.
As with most households, both Michael and Tanya work to provide for their family. Tanya has given up her job and has now taken on the role as nurse, mother, teacher and advocate. Over the next few months, the family will endure the loss of an income, possible medical expenses beyond their reach and many more emotional and financial hurdles.
“As this news is still very new, we are still in the process of finding out how much our medical aid will cover the ongoing treatment and therefore we do not know what the shortfall will be, although it is bound to be significant. If people are willing to help out in any small way towards raising funds for the upcoming, trying months, it would be hugely appreciated.”
A bank account has been opened in Emma’s name for funds to be transferred. “We are looking into opening a trust fund in order to monitor future donations. We hope this can be done soon.”
Besides the financial support, Michael and Tanya have been touched and uplifted by the prayers, kindness, strength and encouragement of so many within the community. “The willingness of people in their acts of kindness and their support is remarkable and we are truly thankful.
We appeal to the Toti community to adopt Emma into their hearts and pray for her full recovery. Please stand with us in faith as we walk down the road of recovery with hope in our hearts and a belief that Emma is not alone.”
Banking details: EN De Vries, Standard Bank, savings account, account number: 033991065.
For more information, contact Debbie De Nysschen on 083-254-1590.
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