Family appeals for $15K for baby to undergo operation

Peter Matika, Senior Reporter
A BULAWAYO family is appealing for $15 000 for their nine-month-old baby who is suffering from a heart disease to undergo an operation in India.

The baby, Rudorwashe Grace Moyo was diagnosed at seven months with a life threatening heart disease known as congenital heart disease.

In an interview, Rudo’s mother, Mrs Tendai Moyo said time was running out and the family was distraught from the thought of losing her.

“The condition was only discovered when she was seven months old. It is unfortunate that our medical facilities do not have advanced equipment that can assist in detecting such conditions. As it is, we have managed to raise slightly above $3 000, which is not enough.

“Once we raise the money we will swiftly be on our way to India for the operation that we hope will be life changing. I am, however, not sure how long we will stay there, as she needs at least three operations and this will be a serious and tricky one,” said Mrs Moyo.

She said baby Rudo’s condition was being kept from worsening because of the treatment she was getting.

“She is being administered with an anti-heart failure medication, which costs $4 for every 100mls and it only lasts four days. She is also on flufecide and captoprile which also costs $4. She also relies on medical oxygen, which we buy periodically.

“The oxygen costs $44 that’s inclusive of the oxygen vile. It is becoming hard to raise money for her operation and also acquire drugs she needs to remain alive,” said a tearful Mrs Moyo.

She said baby Rudo hasn’t achieved much in terms of development as a baby.

“She hasn’t achieved much in terms of growth. She sits with the aid of cushions or someone, she can’t crawl, has bad skin texture and colour and her breathing is difficult,” said Mrs Moyo, adding that whenever she was short of oxygen her skin would turn blue, her eyes yellow and tongue a brittle blue as well.

According to medical surveys congenital heart defect is one of the most common types of birth defects.

Symptoms include abnormal heart rhythms, blue-tinted skin, shortness of breath, failure to feed or develop normally, and swollen body tissue or organs.

Treatments include medication to lower blood pressure and control heart rate, heart devices, catheter procedures and surgery. Serious cases, such as of baby Rudo’s may require a heart transplant or correctional operations.

The $15 000 would cater for baby Rudo and her mother’s travel, medical and other necessities while in India.

The family has since launched a campaign to raise money for Rudo to undergo surgery, with various accounts being opened for those willing to assist.

Last weekend the family in collaboration with local fast food outlet Slice Pizzeria, held a fun day in the city but couldn’t raise much.

“It is now very hard as she is in and out of hospital. We are appealing for assistance from both individuals and corporates. Time is running out and her condition is worrying,” said Mrs Moyo.

The family has since opened a fundraising page on Facebook — Fundraising for Baby Rudo’s Heart, an EcoCash account 0771 907 636, a ZB Bank account 4307-453101-200.

Those also willing to donate in cash or in kind can reach the family on (09) 480 838, 0785516142 and 0713155700.

@peterkmatika