A Mitchell Plain mother has turned to crowdfunding in the hope of raising the money that would see her get much-needed dialysis treatment because of her failing kidneys.
Faldela Dilgee, 37, is hoping to raise R144 000 for the surgery that will enable her to be treated through a dialysis machine.
When kidneys fail, dialysis is a procedure performed to keep the body in balance by removing waste, salt and extra water to prevent them from building up in the body.
Dilgee was first diagnosed two years ago but her illness only took a turn for the worse in June.
“I had bronchitis and suddenly felt extremely sick. I could not walk, I could not breathe or move any of my limbs,” she said. “When I went to the doctor, he told me that I needed dialysis urgently. Unfortunately, the public hospital cannot help me at the moment as there is a waiting list.”
Dilgee has since joined a medical aid but will only be eligible for her chronic treatment by the end of January.
She will need at least two dialysis treatments a week for the rest of her life.
The treatment will cost her R15 000 to place a catheter in her body and R1 260 per dialysis treatment.
“The doctor said that this illness is fatal. Now my fear is for my children, they need me,” she said.
Dilgee said she was frustrated as she did not know what to do. “I cannot even work because I was in retail and it required me to be on my feet all the time, and I used to be so independent and full of life,” she said.
Dilgee said her family were now struggling financially as all the pressure was on her husband.
Her sister, Masroefa Kassen, created a crowdfunding page for her at the link, doit4charity.co.za/masroefa.kassen
So far they have only raised R4 400, which equates to 3% of the funds she needs.
“Any help will do, so whatever anybody can do will be appreciated,” said Dilgee.
Her sister in-law, Olivia Jacobs, said it was very hard for her to see Dilgee this way.
“This is scary for us because she is so young and she has small kids,” said Jacobs.
The family will also be hosting a fundraising party on September 9 at the Freedom Riders Club in 12th Avenue, Kensington, at 7pm. Tickets cost R50 and are available by contacting Gerry at 072 697 6774.