A routine doctor’s visit and keen observation of unusually low blood pressure led to the discovery of a life-threatening illness for Gqeberha resident, Zachary Francis.
The 21-year-old Nelson Mandela University student was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia, a rare condition which affects an estimated two to seven people per million annually.
From an active and sporty young man who spent his weekends playing rugby, cricket and socialising, Zachary’s weekdays are now filled with syringes and trips to the hospital as he navigates the biggest fight of his life.
The Bachelor of Education Foundation Phase student is in urgent need of a stem cell match.
However, according to DKMS Africa only 0.36% of South Africans are registered as potential stem cell donors, of which 8% are Asian 9% Coloured, and 38% Black.
What does this mean?
The data suggests that patients from the above ethnic groups face a herculean challenge in finding potential life-saving matches.
DKMS Africa Donor Recruiter, Yanelani Mbolompo, explained the medical prognosis and treatment for aplastic anaemia.
“The prognosis for individuals with aplastic anaemia can vary significantly, as responses to treatment differ from person to person. However, with standard treatments, approximately 80% of patients show improvement,” he said.
Zachary receives his weekly transfusions at Life Mercantile Hospital, and although he is on a medical aid, it does not cover all his expenses.
“In April, Zachary began treatment with Revolade to stimulate his bone marrow, but unfortunately, as of now, there have not been the expected improvements,” Mbolompo shared with PE Express on Monday, June 23.
“In June, Zachary started an immunosuppressive therapy called Atgam, which aims to suppress the immune response that affects bone marrow and assists in its recovery,” she added.
According to Mbolompo, aplastic anaemia can occur at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in young adults (15-25 years) and older adults (over 60 years).
Unfortunately, none of Zachary’s family members are a stem cell match, and according to DKMS Africa around 70 % of patients rely on the kindness of strangers for their survival.
Marlon Francis, Zachary’s father, explained: “A sibling could most likely have been a match, but unfortunately he is an only child. Parents are only up to a 50% (match) but we are not, so he needs a donor from the database.”
Although everything seems bleak, hope remains.
“We are all feeling positive at the moment and praying that we find a donor.”
Francis explained how the medical costs for treatments has depleted their medical aid benefits, which is why a fundraising event is planned for July.
“In the last three months he has used close to R400 000 in benefits,” said Marlon. “His savings are depleted, and we have to make 20% co-payments for medication and doctor’s visits now.”
Zachary’s diagnosis came as a surprise, as he was always a healthy child and adult, his father added.
“Zachary was out on a park run in early February this year,” Marlon recalled. “After the run, he felt a bit tired and took his blood pressure, which was very low, and then went to see his doctor who who sent him right to the Mercantile Hospital.”
Zachary was admitted to the hospital, where he underwent various blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy, and the diagnosis was confirmed.
“Zachary did not have low blood pressure before, but as the doctor explained, symptoms are very hard to see with aplastic anaemia.”
To assist with the medical costs, a fundraising event will take place at the Nelson Mandela Yacht Club on July 26 at the cost of R80.
For more information on how to register as a stem cell donor go to www.dkms-africa.org/get-involved/virtual-drives/be-the-match-zachary-needs.
Donors need to be between the ages of 17–55 years old, in good health and living in South Africa.
