A woman from Silobela is appealing for financial assistance for her three weeks old baby who has Encephalocele to undergo surgery at Mpilo Hospital.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Encephalocele is a rare type of birth defect of the neural tube that affects the brain.
“Encephalocele is a sac-like protrusion or projection of the brain and the membranes that cover it through an opening in the skull. Encephalocele happens when the neural tube does not close completely during pregnancy,” says CDC.
In an interview with CITE, Siwinile Tshuma said her child, Sininile Tshuma was transferred from Nkayi Hospital to Mpilo Hospital for treatment.
“My child is three weeks old, she was born on the 2nd of July 2023 and on the 4th of July, I was transferred to Mpilo Hospital, she was born with something in her head that needs to be drained, it is watery,” said Tshuma.
She said she needs US$190 for her child to conduct blood tests and undergo surgery.
“The money is for blood tests and other necessities for her to undergo the operation. I am appealing for assistance, it’s a really difficult situation for me.’
The operation has been planned for this week and Tshuma is running against time to raise the funds.
For the child to undergo an operation sterile gloves, abdominal swabs, nylon and other necessities prescribed by the doctor are needed.
Contacted for a comment, Mpilo Hospital public relations officer Sister Melody Mvula confirmed that the patient has Posterior encephalocele.
“The patient is admitted at Paeds (pediatric ward )ground floor and is in a stable condition. She is awaiting theatre, date to be confirmed,” said Sister Mvula.
Those willing to assist may contact Siwinile Tshuma on 0782 872 475.
