The Helderberg’s miracle baby, John-Ray Fortuin, who last year was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease as well as type-1 diabetes, continues to inspire hope as his parents soldier on with fundraisers and faith.
Parents Cameron Hendricks and Ray-Lee Fortuin who shared their story previously (“Miracle baby rallies support”, DistrictMail, 26 August 2021), stated this week that they have had many ups and downs along the way, but have always managed to work through and overcome them with a big smile.
John-Ray recently turned 2 years old on 31 March.
“He is nothing less than a true blessing and ball of fun and laughter to be around,” said Cameron. “His laughter and energy are so infectious. Our son has such a big heart that at times it leaves people asking the question ‘how can this little happy, energetic boy be diagnosed as a type 1 diabetic’?”
The doting mom says her little boy has been doing extraordinary well on his Medtronic Insulin Pump, and his blood glucose levels have been well within range. “Of course, we face difficulties ensuring it’s stable because just imagine having to restrict him from eating or drinking certain things. It’s extremely difficult raising a toddler with type-1 diabetes. It’s no walk in the park. Therefore we are so thankful and grateful for our ‘village’ that supports us and stands by our side when needed.”
Cameron says the biggest challenge she and Ray-Lee face is being able to afford John-Ray’s consumables that are needed for the insulin pump to function, such as the continuous glucose monitoring system (known as a cgm /sensor), insulin reservoirs and insulin infusion sets.
These are used to read John-Ray’s blood-sugar levels and administer the insulin through the pump. She said these items amount to R5 000 a month, and these he cannot go without.
“Unfortunately, these items are not accessible at public clinics or hospitals, and therefore we are liable for the costs ourselves.”
The family has not been sitting idle, but rather has hosted various fundraisers, such as boerewors-roll sales, raising awareness of type-1 diabetes, hosting a karaoke evening and fundraiser at The Empire Lounge.
“We still have a long road ahead of us, but we remain faithful and positive,” Cameron says. “John-Ray is a warrior and has shown us so much courage since his diagnosis. He’s at that point where when his blood glucose levels are low he will come to us, asking for either a chocolate or banana. Or, when the insulin pump’s alarm goes off, warning that his blood glucose levels are high or low, he will come to us saying ‘pump is going off.’
“He is so wise and has an idea of what his body is experiencing and what he needs to do or say. He always amazes us.
When you look at John-Ray playing happily you would never have imagine that this little two-year-old is battling with a disease that is detrimental to his health and well-being. “He is indeed a blessing. If you suffer from type-1 diabetes, or your child is, don’t give up. There will be many days when it feels like you are failing or want to give up, but fight! Fight back! Type-1 diabetes might be a permanent disease but it is manageable.”
The couple’s dream is to start a non-profit organisation to assist others in need who cannot afford their CGM devices or consumables for insulin pumps.
Says Cameron: “We want to give back to our community – that’s our dream and vision. The community can also hop onto John-Ray’s Facebook page ‘John-Ray’s Foundation of Hope’ to read up more about type-1 diabetes and his everyday life. We invite anyone to donate or assist us in obtaining John-Ray’s medical devices.”
She extended a word of thanks to the entire community and each and every one for their support. John-Ray’s parents can be contacted either on 078 128 3029 (Cameron) or 076 176 9863 (Ray-Lee) or via email cameronjhendricks@gmail.com.
