#SaveALife, an Eldorado Park-based Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) was started in July this year to assist children suffering from rare diseases. The team, which currently consists of seven members namely Cindy Green, Ustacia Arendze, Jeneve Birkenstock, Majorie Williams, Joslind Mare, Verlicia Stamboul and Earl Cilliers are committed to ensuring that each child assigned to the organisation receives assistance with a success rate of 100%.
“We are passionate about children and we are passionate about what we do, we believe that everyone deserves a second chance, that is why we are doing this – simply to assist families,” said Stamboul.
“The main purpose of our organisation is to create a sustainable channel by sustaining the basic requirements and needs to aid these children by raising funds and getting sponsorships. We are all excited about helping these children live meaningful lives within their communities irrespective of their background,” she added.
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14-year-old Jade Anderson from Eldorado Park who accidentally drank drain cleaner a few years ago was the organisation’s first case.
“He was the reason why we started our organisation. We all saw his video that was circulated on social media and we were all touched by it. Each of us knew that something, somehow needed to be done,” said Green.
“We are also currently assisting three-year-old Eliana Hattingh who suffers from Encopresis Bowel also referred to as Fecal Incontinence. Typically this happens when impacted stool collects in the colon and rectum.
“In constipation, the child’s stool is hard, dry and very painful to pass. As a result, the child avoids going to the toilet. Eventually, stool retention causes swelling of the bowel,” said Mare.
The organisation has also taken on 30-year-old Ruade ‘Wade’ Mention from Ennerdale who was diagnosed with diabetes at birth.
#SaveALife’s mission is to support the patient and family through fundraising initiatives which include fun walks/runs, concerts, hosting carwashes, high teas as well as approaching businesses. All proceeds are used for anything the patient needs, including transport to doctor visits, fees for doctor visits, medication and ultimately for the operation that is needed for the individual.
“We would like to make it known that #SaveALife is not only limited to Eldorado Park. We encourage families to get in touch with us should they need assistance with a family member or friend suffering from a rare disease. We assist patients of all ages,” Stamboul concluded.
A colour run in aid of Eliana (3) will be held at the Eldorado Park Stadium on September 7. To get in touch with the organisation visit their Facebook page: @savealife011
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