Caylum was born on 12 January 2016 in Johannesburg, South Africa with many complications… but thanks to a local breakfast show and South Africa’s big hearts, he’s one step away from getting the procedure that could save his life!
He was diagnosed with tracheooesophageal fistula (TOF) and oesophageal atresia (OA) by Netcare’s Dr Charles Caraphinha. This means he has problems with his oesophagus (the feeding tube) and the trachea (the windpipe).
He was later diagnosed with a rare condition where the tracheal (windpipe) cartilage is soft. He had his first surgery at only 2 days old but still has recurring episodes where he stops breathing.
Caylum has a 70% collapse in his left main bronchus leading to the lung and has been resuscitated more than ten times in his short life, the most recent episode as recently as 21st July. It is a miracle he has not suffered any brain damage, a risk he faces EVERY DAY.
Caylum has spent the most of his short life in hospital, and has been in ICU since 9th May. His current preventative treatment is not sustainable.
However there is hope, a doctor in Boston is able to perform a procedure that will benefit baby Caylum’s condition, and allow him to live a normal life at home with his family.
And Joburg has come to the party in a BIG way.
Earlier this year Samantha, 29, Caylum’s mom, managed to get the attention of the Breakfast Express team who have made it their mission to assist this little guy’s life.
Samantha & her husband need just over R7-million to #SendCaylumToBoston for the procedure, and although the team at 947 would LOVE to cover it, they do not have the funding, but what they do have is a massive following.
They called out to all their listeners to donate, to help, to pray, to support & Joburg listened. Within the first 15 minutes they had already raised R100k in donations.
And in just 2 months… South Africa has assisted in raising over 70% of what is needed to send baby Caylum to Boston.
We are nearly there!!!! Don’t stop now. Share the story & assist however you can.
To assist in any way visit his website for details or make a direct donation using these details:
Bank: ABSA Delmas
Account type: Savings account
Acc holder: C. Willemse
Acc no 9318734302
Branch code 632005
You can Also Donate by SMS’ing CAYLUM to 40555 and Donate R20 per SMS to give the gift of life!
Thank you Joburg & South Africa, your hearts are so big. Caylum is a very lucky boy & we can’t wait to see this bouncy little fellow healthy & happy.
Listen to the emotional first interview on 947 here.
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