Spina Bifida patient and mother left in crisis as diaper supply ends

Life has taken a deeply challenging turn for 24-year-old Siyabonga Jiyane, a young man who has been courageously battling Spina Bifida, a neural tube defect that has left him unable to talk, walk, or stand on his own since birth.

The latest hardship to befall Siyabonga and his dedicated mother, Victoria Simelane, is the abrupt discontinuation of essential diapers from Witbank General Hospital, leaving them in a dire situation.

With tears welling up in her eyes, Victoria emotionally reveals, “Earlier this year, we received the devastating news that we won’t be receiving diapers anymore, as the government has ceased distribution at the hospital.”

This announcement has cast a dark shadow over their already challenging lives.

Siyabonga’s daily life is a poignant testament to his mother’s unwavering dedication. “I must constantly watch over him because he can’t communicate his needs. I have to guess if he’s hungry, needs a bath, or requires a diaper change. It’s an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking situation,” Victoria explained.

Their financial struggles have intensified since the passing of Siyabonga’s father.

Victoria now relies solely on her son’s disability grant, which falls woefully short of covering their basic needs.

She reflects on their former financial stability, saying, “When his father was still alive, he used to help us financially.”

The loss of this support has exacerbated the hardships they now face.

Despite the monumental challenges he confronts each day, Siyabonga remains a beacon of joy for his mother. “He is a good son who loves making noise, even though he can’t speak. He is always smiling, and his resilience inspires me every day,” Victoria shares with a hint of pride.

In response to inquiries about this distressing situation, the Mpumalanga Department of Health spokesperson, Chris Nabela, expressed her lack of awareness, stating, “I am not aware of this issue.”

However, he assured concerned parties that the department would look into the matter.

As Siyabonga and Victoria navigate the difficult path ahead, they reach out to the community with a heartfelt plea for assistance.

Their financial difficulties sometimes make it impossible to afford both diapers and groceries.

In these trying times, any assistance from kind-hearted individuals willing to help this family would be greatly appreciated.

Those who wish to offer their support can contact Victoria at 072 771 6916.

Please send us an email to info@witbanknews.co.za or phone us on 013 656 2490

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