Increase Paediatric Palliative Care in KZN, SA

It is so exciting to be writing to our amazing supporters again. This year has so far been filled with amazing achievements and an increase in the number of children we have been able to provide palliative care to.

In June, the National Palliative Care Conference was held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, our home town. Over 300 delegates from all over South Africa as well as some international delegates attended the conference. Members of the Umduduzi team were part of the organising committee as well as co-chaired the paediatric stream. It was incredible to be together with like-minded people and to see how far palliative care has come in South Africa. It was an opportunity to explore new models of care as well as a time to reflect on all that we have achieved over the last 12 years. A very validating experience.

To date our team has provided services to over 200 new patients – an average of 28 new referrals a month. We are also exploring a peri-natal service for pregnant mothers who receive a difficult diagnosis whilst pregnant. This is an over-looked area of palliative care and one that we hope we can start venturing into.

Some of our patients are with us for a long time as their illnesses are more chronic / life-limiting. One such patient is BZ. He was born a heart condition that is inoperable. This has not slowed him down at all. Today, 15^th August, is his 6^th birthday! BZ has been in our care since he was diagnosed. At this stage our service is more about care and support and some symptom control. AS his condition changes, so will the services we provide to him and his family. BZ is an adorable young boy with an infectious giggle and a cheeky grin. Visits with him lifts everyone’s spirits and entrenches the importance of palliative care from the time of diagnosis. BZ got to meet our mascot, Mdu, at our clinic and the two made a very cute couple.

Mdu is our newly founded mascot. As he says when you meet him; “I’m Mdu, your cuddly companion with a heart full of love! I am not just a friend. I am a symbol of hope and care for children facing tough times. By adopting me, you’re helping Umduduzi – Hospice Care for Children bring comfort and compassion to your lives. Thank you for making a difference!” He even has his own Instagram page #MdutheComforter.

Through sales of Mdu we are able to continue the invaluable work that we are doing. Helping children like BZ experience quality of life for the time they have. Thank you to you and all our supporters for helping us help them.