When things seem dark and the path forward feels impossible, South Africans have a way of forging their own. In a beautiful display of unity, a mother’s deepest prayers are now being answered as a community of friends and strangers comes together to ensure little Zayden receives the life-saving medical treatment he deserves.
Durban, South Africa (04 May 2026) – Right now in Durban, a mother is praying her deepest and sincerest prayers. Praying that her little boy, Zayden Naicker, receives the vital treatment his body so desperately needs.
Diagnosed with Gorlin Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects all major organs, Zayden’s condition is further complicated by life-threatening seizures caused by epilepsy and other ailments.
At just 14 months old, this brave little boy has spent more time in a hospital bed than he has simply enjoying being a child.
“He’s seen numerous specialists such as a neurologist, geneticist, cardiologist, dermatologist and soon a dental surgeon, all to monitor his condition,” distressed mom, Krizelle Naicker, tells us.
Due to his underdeveloped brain, Zayden has also experienced delays in reaching his milestones. He also requires ongoing speech therapy, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.
Yet, despite everything he has endured, this little fighter’s light continues to shine brightly as he bravely faces each new day.
“Zayden is the most bubbliest baby you’ll ever find. He’s always smiling and laughing. I sometimes wonder how he can be so happy when so much is going on with him. He’s very playful, loves his toys, and loves clapping his hands. He is the best thing that has happened to his dad and me,” says Krizelle.
Even more special, Zayden came into their lives as a surprise, as Krizelle had struggled to fall pregnant for many years after having her daughter.
“I didn’t think I’d be able to get pregnant again till Zayden came along. He is a very brave boy. He has literally fought death to be here. On 26 December, Zayden experienced an extremely bad seizure, and there was no doctor available to attend to him. He was turning blue, and his heart rate had dropped to 10. I really thought I was gonna lose him, but he pulled through. He has been fighting this condition head-on.”
It goes without saying that the costs of his care have been overwhelming, with transport fees, fuel, and hospital bills adding up quickly.
“We’ve exhausted our savings and credit, and we’re struggling to provide the best care for our little warrior, as we cannot afford medical aid, but would really like to get him on it, as this will give him the best care,” shares Krizelle.
But in a beautiful glimmer of hope… right now, this mother’s desperate prayers have not gone unheard.
Since launching a crowdfunding campaign three months ago, a steady stream of support has poured in from loved ones and complete strangers alike, all moved by Zayden’s courageous fight against such a complex condition. Thanks to this overwhelming compassion, R87,104 has been raised toward the R100,000 target, giving one little boy a true fighting chance.
To help keep hope alive for Zayden and his family, donate towards his ongoing medical treatment and specialist consultations here.
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