The Smith family were watching a medical drama which finally led to the long-awaited answer of what was ailing their son Quade.
South Africa (07 December 2021) – Everyone has their favourite medical drama show, whether you are an ER, House, Scrubs, Grey’s Anatomy or New Amsterdam fan. The Smith family never imagined their favourite (New Amsterdam) would hold the key to finally getting their son Quade diagnosed.
On 7 July this year, Jade and Gerrit Smith watched an episode of the medical drama, “New Amsterdam.” The episode featured a boy with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – they looked at one another and immediately recognised their own son.
For years they were aware that Quade was not meeting his age-group markers. They shared that his vocabulary was incredible but he took a long time to walk and even then, he had a strange way of getting himself up from the ground.
They took him to several doctors, always sent home being told Quade would be fine. They refused to let that happen again and after watching the show, booked an appointment with a neurologist. Their worst fear was confirmed; little Quade has Duchenne. Sadly the muscle-wasting disease is 100% fatal diagnosis, with no cure and the damage already done, cannot be reversed.
They were gutted by the news but so thankful to be able to now get Quade the medical support he needs. Linda Wallace from the Farmers Market Witbank Fundraiser Campaign heard the news and reached out to the Jacaranda Good Morning Angel’s for help.
The hope is to raise some much-needed funds to support Quade’s special needs. Aside from his life-threatening disease, Quade has also been diagnosed with Autism, OCD, Sensory Processing Disorder, Anxiety, and Osteopenia (a condition that leads to weakened bones).
His monthly medical expenses add up to a staggering R10,000 every month. Linda hopes a little financial relief for the family would be a great way to start the festive season.
Through the help of the Good Morning Angels, Roman’s Pizza will assist the Smith family with R35 000 to help with Quade’s special needs.
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