Andrea Chothia
A FORMER Red Cross Children’s Hospital patient, eight-year-old Cadi de Jager, is still doing her part to improve its Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).
De Jager, along with families, communities, corporates, trusts and foundations, has helped the Children’s Hospital Trust Fund raise R4.5 million for building a bigger and better PICU.
“Cadi is very much a part of all the activities, helping with the planning and loving the fact that she can give back with her whole heart,” said her mother, Celeste de Jager.
The entire project will cost over R100m and significantly improve intensive-care services for critically ill and injured children from all over Africa. The fund has appealed to the public to help raise the last R10m and, thus far, with the help of De Jager, R4.5m has been raised.
The fund is confident of raising the outstanding R5.5m before the end of the month.
De Jager was first diagnosed with a benign brain tumour, but doctors later discovered it was a cyst.
“Cadi’s campaigning has resulted in direct donations of almost R60 000 and she encouraged her school peers to do something purposeful with their lives regardless of age,” said trust spokesperson Roxy Mitchell.
De Jager and her family have hosted potjiekos and jazz evenings to raise funds, while the little girl has appeared on many radio and television shows promoting the cause.
Construction of the PICU began in October and should be completed by October next year. Increased space means better support facilities for staff.
It costs between R8 000 and R10 000 for a child to spend one night in the PICU.
lSMS 40465 to donate R20 to build a bigger and better PICU or donate online at www.childrenshospitaltrust. org.za