This morning on The Morning Cruise, we spoke with Lee Verdane, the mother of Mishca, a 22-year-old woman living with cystic fibrosis , a rare and life-threatening genetic condition. Lee shared the deeply personal journey of her daughter’s fight, the challenges they’ve faced, and the hope they’ve found through a breakthrough treatment called Trikafta.
A Childhood Shaped by Illness
Mishca was diagnosed at the age of two after multiple hospital stays and medical emergencies. From that moment, her life has been defined by daily medications, intensive physiotherapy, and constant monitoring. She has never experienced a “normal” childhood, every day was a struggle to breathe.
Despite it all, Mishca has always stayed strong. The family decided early on not to limit her life, choosing instead to live fully, even if it meant taking risks. She played sports, made friends, and lived with courage and determination. As Lee says, Mishca is a quiet warrior – always smiling, never complaining.
What Is Cystic Fibrosis?
In simple terms, cystic fibrosis causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and digestive system. It leads to constant lung infections and damage. Mishca lives with permanent bacteria in her lungs and suffers from reduced pancreatic function, which affects how her body digests food. She has to take special medication (Creon) every time she eats.
It’s a complex and serious disease but Mishca faces it every day with grace.
Trikafta: A Life-Changing Treatment
At the start of this year, Lee made a promise to her daughter:
“This year, I will find a way to get you Trikafta.”
Trikafta is a revolutionary drug that has transformed the lives of cystic fibrosis patients worldwide. But in South Africa, it comes at a staggering cost , R2.2 million per year.
Thankfully, through a special access program (Section 21), the drug can be secured at a reduced cost of R400,000 per year (about R33,000 per month).
A Community Comes Together
Lee works full time and has taken on the fundraising mission herself. Family, friends, and even strangers from around the world have donated generously. Thanks to this incredible support, Mishca started Trikafta three months ago.
Before the treatment, she couldn’t speak a full sentence without stopping to breathe. She had a chair in the shower. Today, things are finally changing.
An Event of Hope
On Saturday, June 28, a special fundraising event called
“Giempie & Friends in concert will take place at the Wittebome Civic Centre in Wynberg. All proceeds will go toward Mishca’s life-saving treatment.
It promises to be a powerful, emotional evening filled with love and solidarity.
Final Words
Mishca never asks for pity. She’s strong, quiet, and brave. As her mother said,
“It’s been a challenge – but one I’ve taken on with love.”
Let’s help Mishca keep breathing.
Join the event. Donate. Spread the word. Every little bit counts.
writting by Ida
No comments:
Post a Comment