Danie was born fighting for two lives, and at three years old, this brave ‘pump twin’ hasn’t stopped fighting for his own.
Richards Bay, South Africa (13 April 2026) – There are moments in life that change everything… and for little Danie Du Plessis’ family, his arrival into their world is at the heart of one of those moments.
From the moment he was born on 24 January 2023, Danie had to fight for his life. He was one of a set of twins in an acardiac twin pregnancy and was what doctors referred to as the “pump” twin.
Now at three years old, this boy has faced numerous complications, including apnea, his heart stopping from time to time, low birth weight, delayed development, seizures, and more than any young life should ever have to endure.
“Danie is not just a little boy going through a difficult time. He is a gentle, loving soul with a quiet strength that inspires everyone around him. Even on his hardest days, he still finds a way to smile, to connect, and to remind us what true courage looks like,” his grandmother, Yolandi Bouwer, shares with Good Things Guys.
Danie currently lives in Richards Bay with his grandparents, 600 km away from his parents, to better access specialised care.
So far, he’s been assessed by a Paediatrician, Speech Therapist, two Occupational Therapists, an Orthopaedic Surgeon and a Physiotherapist – care that has come at a high cost as Danie is not on medical aid.
Recent consultations have confirmed that Danie does not have cerebral palsy, as one doctor had previously suggested. However, there are ongoing concerns regarding his eye movements, and following a seizure, the muscles in one of his legs became stiff. As a result, Danie now requires a special shoe to help stretch and loosen the affected muscle.
“As a family, we are now facing one of our biggest challenges yet. Danie needs an MRI scan to help doctors understand what is going on and guide the next steps in his care. Unfortunately, the wait through the state system could take months — time we simply don’t have. That’s why his scan has been scheduled privately, bringing with it costs that are far beyond what we can manage on our own.”
The scan comes at a cost of R50,000, and this is where Danie’s family needs a miracle for their miracle baby.
“Every single contribution, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to getting Danie the care he needs. If you are unable to donate, simply sharing this message can make a world of difference. Danie has already touched so many hearts without even trying. Now we are asking, from the bottom of our hearts, for your support in helping him through this journey,” Yolandi humbly appeals.
To help this little boy get the care and ongoing medical support he so desperately needs, consider donating here.
You can also support and follow his journey on Danie’s Facebook page.
Sources: Yolandi Bouwer
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