Despite a life-threatening illness and regular treatment for aplastic anaemia, Nelson Mandela University student Zachary Francis is pressing ahead with his studies.
The 21-year-old was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia in February, a rare condition which affects an estimated two to seven people per million annually.
Since the Bachelor of Education Foundation Phase student’s diagnosis and treatment, his condition has improved.
His father, Marlon Francis, shared the details with PE Express.
“Zachary is doing fine. He has a bout of flu at the moment, and treating his flu is not as easy as with ‘normal’ people because of the treatment he is on,” he explained.
“He still does his studies online with Nelson Mandela University, where he is enrolled in his third year. They have just had assignments to complete, and he has been coping fine so far.”
Treatment showing positive results
Commenting on his son’s medical treatment, Francis said Zachary has shown signs of improvement.
“Since he started with the ATG treatment, all his counts have gone up,” he shared.
“He hasn’t needed a transfusion since coming out of hospital and was receiving these weekly, so for the past two months he has had his own blood and platelets.”
However, the family faces ongoing challenges.
“The treatment does come at a cost financially, as we have to do co-payments for everything now,” Francis explained. “Also, the treatment has over 100 potential side effects, of which he has experienced a few.”
Most importantly, a stem cell match has yet to be found.
“There is still no matching donor, and people are encouraged to register as stem cell donors,” he continued.
“His doctor has also been helping by submitting swab kits at his surgery, where you can register as a stem cell donor.”
Fundraising events planned
Meanwhile, the family has planned regular fundraising efforts to keep up with the medical costs.
On 25 October, a music bingo will be held at the Nelson Mandela Yacht Club, and an ‘oldies’ disco with a nautical theme will be held at the same venue on 29 November.
“This venue has been wonderful in helping us with our fundraising efforts,” Francis concluded.
According to DKMS Africa, aplastic anaemia can occur at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in young adults (15-25 years) and older adults (over 60 years).
• For more information on how to register as a stem cell donor, visit www.dkms-africa.org/get-involved/virtual-drives/be-the-match-zachary-needs.
Donors need to be between 17-55 years old, in good health, and living in South Africa.
