Cape Town – Just days after being discharged from a lengthy hospital stay, 20-year-old Mishca Bester has been readmitted, as her family continued to appeal for public support in her cystic fibrosis battle.
Bester’s mother, Leigh, said that since the age of two her daughter had spent a great deal of time in hospital fighting the life-shortening cystic fibrosis, which damages the lungs and digestive system.
Cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices and causes these fluids to become thick and sticky. They then plug up the tubes, ducts and passageways in the lungs and other organs.
“While obviously despondent at times, through all of this Mishca has remained a tenacious, fun-loving and spiritual individual. She endears herself to friends, family and the many young patients with whom she has shared hospital wards over the years,” her mother said.
Just days after being discharged from a lengthy hospital stay, Bester, from Plumstead, had been readmitted to hospital, her mom said on Monday.
“Her lung function is poor and there’s a new bug in her lungs. She clings to the hope that she will clear this new hurdle.
“As a family, we are struggling to keep up financially. While there is no shortage of love and emotional support in and for our family, Mishca’s journey has drastically depleted our resources.
“Funding is desperately needed, not only to cover exorbitant medical co-payments, but also to cover the cost of ongoing treatment – and even the possibility of a lung transplant in the future.”
Bester constantly needs medical attention, oxygen, digestive enzymes, Pulmozyme, antibiotics, mental health support, dietetics, specialist appointments and more.
She takes scores of tablets daily including up to 40 digestive enzyme tablets. She needs nebulising meds, antibiotics, steroids, physiotherapy and nebulisations twice a day. This is the minimum for her treatment when at home.
The family said any donations would be used towards paying the outstanding medical bills, co-payments currently piling up and upcoming medical appointments and treatment.
“We have been moved by the generosity of so many who have already given to the campaign and most especially by the wonderful messages of hope. Thank you so, so much,” Bester said.
To donate, visit: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/mishca-bester
Cape Times