Mandela Day for the Gayiya family is more than just a day where one gives back to the community- it is a day where their son received a second chance at life.
The ever so lively Phalo Gayiya (13) celebrated his sixth year with his new heart on Monday (18 July).
According to his mother Nombulelo Gayiya, her son was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a type of heart muscle disease that causes the heart chambers (ventricles) to thin and stretch, growing larger. It typically starts in the heart’s main pumping chamber (left ventricle). Dilated cardiomyopathy makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.
Anxious faces awaited the life changing moment at the Christian Barnard Hospital in Cape Town when the boy was only seven (7) years old.
His mother recently relives the day in a series of moving WhatsApp stories.
“Phalo didnt not understand his condition, he just knew that he was very sick and that he needed a new heart,” says Gayiya.
Unlike other children his age Phalo could not play contact sport and pick up heavy items. He also had to stick to a healthy diet while he excercised lightly.
Six years later and though he is still on medication and very dependent on his pacemaker, “he is doing very well,” his mother adds.
The miracle child, as he is referred to by his family is getting ready to go to high school next year.
Determination to function as a “normal child” have been crucial for the teenager from De Doorns.
“Phalo loves watching soccer, dancing and playing Xbox.”
“He also plays hockey,” his mother adds.
