Sharing the correct information to ensure early detection is the mission of Stephen Malherbe.
The Cape Town resident has been travelling throughout the Western Cape visiting clinics bringing awareness of Klinefelter Syndrome. He has now brought this awareness campaign to the West Coast. Malherbe started in Melkbosstrand on Monday 10 October and will be travelling throughout the West Coast visiting clinics in Yzerfontein, Langebaan, Saldanha, Vredenburg and more ending in Somerset West on Wednesday 9 November.
Malherbe explains that Klinefelter’s Syndrome is a fairly common yet often unrecognised condition. “Recent statistics show that about one in 450 boys is born with an extra X chromosome, XXY is the most common sex chromosome anomaly. The symptoms are varied and often non-specific.”
He says men are usually diagnosed when fertility issues arise. This is also why he started his own organisation XXY47 and visits clinics to bring awareness to the syndrome.
Malherbe explains that it was only at the age of 17 that he was diagnosed. He believes that early detection is key and therefor doctors and nurses need the relevant information. By relaying information and giving out booklets, Malherbe gets it done. “The goal is to reach the right people in person and ultimately make a difference in the hope that this will educate health practitioners to be aware that this syndrome is not misdiagnosed.”
“People ask me: ‘don’t I ever get bored of doing this?’ but I simply say it gives me joy to assist and make a difference.”
With the help of Elliot Polak, founder of Chromodiversity Foundation, Malherbe is able to make this trip and he is very grateful towards Polak for his assistance.
To continue his journey throughout South Africa Malherbe needs assistance with funds which contribute to accommodation, food and fuel. Should you wish to donate visit www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/driving-with-my-x.
