After a lifetime of caring for and protecting her family, Grandma Shiree now needs the kindness of others to help her receive urgent vitrectomy surgery and save her sight.
Johannesburg, South Africa (28 August 2026) – From the day Shiree Naidoo was born, her grandmother, Grandma Shiree, fought endlessly to keep her safe in this world.
“When my brother came along, she did the exact same thing,” Shiree tells us.
“She has sacrificed everything for us, walking long distances every day just to provide for our basic needs, always walking through the door with a warm smile so we never felt the weight of her struggle.”
Even now, in her old age and as her eyesight deteriorates due to severe Diabetic Retinopathy, Grandma Shiree’s devotion hasn’t faltered. She is the sole breadwinner for her two young children, aged one and nine, and still sits down to play games with her loved ones, often prioritising their happiness above her own pain.
But her vision is worsening at a frighteningly rapid pace, Shiree says.
“Watching the anchor of our family lose her sight is heartbreaking. Without her strength, it feels like losing a piece of ourselves.”
Grandma Shiree has already had her diagnostic eye scans completed. Her ophthalmologist confirmed that she urgently requires vitrectomy surgery to repair her retina and save her sight. But she is unable to take the next critical step due to financial constraints.
“Recently, she suffered a fall, and we attempted to get her treatment through the state-run clinic system. Tragically, after waiting in lines for over six hours, we were completely turned away with zero medical treatment, just told to let it heal on its own.
“Because the public healthcare system has failed her, private surgery is now her only option to save her sight. Without immediate medical intervention, she will lose her vision completely and will no longer be able to provide for or see her grandchildren grow up,” Shiree explains.
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A Community’s Mission to Restore Dignity and Keep Hope Alive for BhekaniTo help save her sight and avoid permanent blindness, her family has launched a crowdfunding campaign in hopes of raising the funds needed for the medical care, support, and relief she urgently needs.
To help this family protect Grandma Shiree, just as she has protected them their entire lives, you can leave a donation here.
Sources: Shiree Naidoo
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