Lungelwa Faltein finds hope for her children after a life of ridicule thanks to a Surgeon from the Smile Foundation who did life-changing surgery.
Treacher Collins syndrome is an inherited condition in which some bones and tissues in the face are not developed. If you have seen “Wonder” starring Juliet Roberts, you will have an idea of the challenges faced and well, you would have also had all the snot-en-trane.
Lungelwa Faltein was born with Treacher Collins syndrome. She spent her life being made fun of as her family didn’t have the funds to pay for the surgery. Thankfully, she has hope for her two children who were also born with the same genetic condition.
“I asked my mom why they had never sought help for me, but she said the family’s circumstances didn’t allow for her to seek medical help for me.”
Lungelwa knew what her children would face with this syndrome and decided to give them the best care possible. She has worked tirelessly to get them the best care and her efforts have finally paid off. After resigning from her job to care for her youngest daughter full time, she can proudly say she has managed to get them the help they need.
“The doctors said I would have to find someone to care for her, but I resigned from my job as a cleaner in Lorraine to look after her.”
Faltein’s daughters are among 27 patients receiving surgeries as part of the Smile Foundation’s Smile Week in Port Elizabeth.
The plastic surgeon working with the family has already started the process. He confirmed that Anelisa (8) had undergone a procedure called fat grafting. The procedure was done to remove fat from her flanks and abdomen. It was then processed and injected into specific areas of her face. As Anelisa is still so young and growing, her next operation which will focus on the facial bones can only take place in a few years time.
Her older sister Zinthle (15) had an eye adjustment surgery during this time as well. Lungelwa had approached the department of plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, that was when Doctor Van der Walt heard the story of her girls.
Initially, the consultation was just for Anelisa but Doctor Van der Walt decided to take on both girls to offer them some relief. According to Lungelwa, the girls are constantly teased about their appearance.
“One day, when Anelisa came to see me, Zinthle asked why she couldn’t be helped as well. I said we could help her too.” – Doctor Van der Walt
The girls had their surgeries on Monday and mom is so excited to see how they heal after. She knows this is only the start but is hopeful it will bring her daughters peace.
The Smile Foundation Smile Week runs from the 13th of August to the 17th. You can follow the Smile Foundation on Facebook here and get involved in their life-changing surgeries too by donating.
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