Thanks to the Surgical Waiting List Project, made possible through the generosity of donors through the Children’s Hospital Trust, little Valencia now has the opportunity to undergo surgery that will improve her vision, and result in a lasting difference to her wellbeing, development and future. She is here at Tygerberg Hospital accompanied by her mother, Vanessa, whose concern for her little girl is evident in her loving expression.

Vanessa tells us that Valencia was a healthy baby when she was born. However, when she was six months old, Valencia contracted tuberculosis. Thankfully, after receiving treatment, the little girl made a full recovery and her mother was overjoyed. As Vanessa gazes lovingly at her daughter, she reflects on the journey they have shared and the challenges they faced.

When Valencia was three years old, she suddenly fell ill with tuberculosis meningitis, which is a severe form of tuberculosis affecting the central nervous system. If undiagnosed and left untreated, this condition can lead to dire neurological complications and high mortality.

Deeply worried about her sick child, Vanessa immediately sprang into action, and Valencia was admitted to Tygerberg Hospital where the little girl was subsequently operated on.

Soon after the operation, the observant mother noticed that Valencia’s eyes turned outward, especially when she was tired or daydreaming or simply looking into the distance. Little Valencia was under the care of Brooklyn Chest Hospital until she was five years old, and they consequently referred her to Tygerberg Hospital because of the eye condition.

Vanessa admits that she has been hesitant to agree to her little girl being operated on again. “I had not really processed the previous operation which was very stressful for me and now she had to be operated on again. I was nervous.”

Although doctors had confirmed that something was wrong with her eyes, the worried mother delayed the operation until this year. Now, at eight years old, Valencia is finally getting the surgery she needs where doctors will weaken and reattach the outer muscles that move each eye outward, further back on the eyeball.

Vanessa tells us that the condition has affected Valencia in several ways. “She is not like other children. At school, she often prefers to keep to herself and struggles to concentrate.”

The surgery will help alleviate many of the challenges she faces and improve her quality of life. Vanessa draws comfort from her faith in God and the prayers of people at her church, which have brought a sense of peace during this stressful time. Most of all, she is grateful and relieved to know that her daughter will soon be able to live a happier, healthier life.

The Surgical Weekend Waiting List would not be possible without the unwavering support of our loyal and generous donors. By helping to reduce lengthy surgical waiting lists, the initiative ensures that children like Valencia can access the essential procedures they need to thrive and enjoy the healthy, fulfilling lives they deserve.