At just over a year old, Oaheng Twala’s heart condition took a serious turn, putting her life in jeopardy.

Without immediate surgery, her survival was uncertain. Today, she is a thriving, active toddler, full of energy and curiosity.

The toddler’s mom, Keabetswe Twala recalled: “When Oaheng was about six weeks old, she suddenly started turning blue, struggling to breathe, and had bubbles coming from her mouth.

“We were terrified and rushed her to the hospital in Klerksdorp, where she was treated for a chest infection. We had no reason to suspect an underlying condition.”

Once Oaheng’s chest infection improved, doctors discovered a heart murmur and noticed her oxygen levels remained abnormally low. This led to further testing.

“Learning about our daughter’s heart condition felt devastating,” Twala said.

Though Oaheng’s condition temporarily stabilised, it soon became clear that she would need surgery to repair a hole between the upper two chambers of her heart, known as an atrial septal defect.

Mande Toubkin, general manager of emergency, trauma, transplant, and corporate social investment at Netcare, explained the challenge:

“There’s an overwhelming need for specialised paediatric heart surgeries, which require significant resources.”

When Oaheng’s condition worsened, the urgency for intervention grew. Dr. Mamaila Lebea, a paediatric cardiologist at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital, quickly applied to the Netcare Foundation and the Maboneng Heart and Lung Institute for support in arranging the surgery.

Dr. Erich Schürmann, cardiothoracic surgeon and head of the Maboneng Foundation, along with Dr. Martin Myburgh, paediatric cardiologist Dr. Janine Meares, anaesthetist Dr. Edith Klebe, and cardiac perfusionist Mr. Thulas Dladla, all volunteered their expertise to help Oaheng and her family during this critical time.

Dr. Schürmann explained the importance of the procedure: “If untreated, a hole of the size Oaheng had could be life-threatening, leading to damage in the lung arteries as she grew. We successfully closed the hole in her heart, and her future looks promising.”

Dr. Lebea added that the surgery was life-saving. “Receiving the operation before her condition progressed has given Oaheng a chance at a healthier future. This surgery has changed the course of her life.”

Twala shared the joy in her daughter’s recovery: “She’s healing so quickly and has been so active since the operation.

“Oaheng knows what she wants, and nothing can stop her! She’s curious about everything and plays with everything — except her toys”

Oaheng’s father, Kamohelo Twala, expressed his deep gratitude:

“We are beyond thankful for the support and care from the Netcare Foundation, Maboneng Heart and Lung Institute, and the team at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital.

“This life-changing procedure has given our daughter a brighter future. We will forever appreciate the dedication, kindness, and hard work shown by everyone.”

The family extended a special thanks to Dr. Lebea for her compassionate guidance, as well as to the skilled surgeons who ensured Oaheng’s successful surgery.

“We’re also grateful to Dr. Klebe for her gentle and caring approach.”

Since the surgery, Oaheng has become more talkative, developed a healthy appetite for her favourite foods, mash and lasagna, and loves trying on her mother’s shoes and handbags, along with playing outdoors.

“Oaheng’s name means ‘To Build,’ and now we see her curiosity and interests growing stronger every day. We’re so grateful she now has the chance to build her life, thanks to this procedure,” said Twala.

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za

Weekend Argus