A Family’s Race Against Time to Help Son Defeat a Returning Brain Tumour

Photo Credit: Supplied by Centaine Stainsby

After exhausting their life savings, Munashe’s family is in a heartbreaking race against time to raise the funds needed for life-saving treatment abroad to give their bright 13-year-old boy the future he deserves.

Johannesburg, South Africa (18 June 2026) – To his family, friends, and teachers, Munashe Mushunje is known for a gentle nature, positive attitude, and quiet determination that inspire everyone around him. Loved by his peers and teachers alike, his character shines through in everything he does.

Outside of the classroom, he enjoys playing tennis, swimming, and making his parents laugh every day. As a hopeful young boy with big dreams for his future, Munashe aspires to become an AI engineer who uses technology to solve real-world problems.

However, at the tender age of 13, he faces an obstacle beyond his years. Earlier this year, Munashe began experiencing persistent headaches.

“We couldn’t understand what was going on.” shares Munashe’s mother, Fadzai Mushunje.

When Munashe tried to return to the tennis court in February, his coaches grew concerned as he struggled to see the ball and play properly. Soon after, he collapsed at school, prompting his parents to seek further medical evaluations that eventually revealed a rare brain tumour.

Photo Credit: Supplied by Centaine Stainsby

Fadzai explains that Munashe had successful surgery in March. However, their hope was short-lived when a recent follow-up scan revealed that the tumour had regrown and continues to put pressure on his optic nerve, affecting his vision.

The first operation cost over R1 million, a large sum that parents, Irvine and Fadzai, managed to raise through determination, community support, and faith.

Now, they face the agonising reality of needing to raise another R1 million in less than two months. This is for a specialised, life-saving proton beam surgery available in fewer than seven countries worldwide. They will need to travel to India or China for the procedure.

“We need to get him to India before he goes blind,” says Fadzai, who confirmed that Munashe hasn’t been able to return to school since March.
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Before his diagnosis, Munashe was a standout student with a quick sense of humour.

One of the educators who had the pleasure of teaching Munashe, Centaine Stainsby, describes him as a child who has left a lasting impression on her heart.

“His character shines through in everything he does. Watching him grow over the two years I taught him was a privilege, and it is difficult to put into words just how special he is. Despite the challenges he is now facing, Munashe continues to show remarkable courage and resilience,” Centaine says.

Despite everything he has endured, Munashe remains a resilient and hopeful young boy with dreams for his future. His family is doing everything possible to save his life, but they cannot do it alone.

To help Munashe receive the life-saving treatment he urgently needs, please donate here.