For six-year-old Zayyaan, attending school, learning new things and enjoying the simple pleasures of childhood come with challenges that his grandmother works tirelessly to overcome. But with mounting medical expenses, special dietary needs and outstanding school fees, the family is now appealing for community support.
Born prematurely on 8 November 2019 at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Zayyaan was diagnosed with autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). He also experiences seizures and requires ongoing medical care.
His parents relocated to the Northern Cape, leaving him in the care of his grandmother, who has taken on the responsibility of meeting his daily needs. Zayyaan attends a special needs school in Ridgeway, south of Johannesburg, which caters for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Despite his health challenges, his family describes him as a lively little boy who is eager to learn, play and experience childhood like other children his age. However, providing him with the care he requires has become increasingly difficult.
According to the family, Zayyaan still relies on PediaSure nutritional supplements, wears nappies and follows a special diet. He also attends monthly appointments at Johannesburg General Hospital.His grandmother receives a disability grant on his behalf, but the family says the money falls far short of covering his monthly expenses. These include transport to hospital appointments and school, specialised food, nappies, medical consultations and school fees.The family has also fallen behind on his school fees, adding to the financial pressure.
Frequent illness adds to family’s struggles
In recent months, Zayyaan’s family says he has experienced recurring illnesses, fevers and infections, sometimes requiring more than two visits to the doctor in a single month. The additional consultations and medical expenses have made an already difficult financial situation even harder to manage. Despite these challenges, his grandmother remains committed to ensuring that he receives the education, treatment and support he needs.
Pink Princess Projects steps in to help
Zahira Mathir, from Pink Princess Projects, has been assisting Zayyaan’s family while also supporting other families caring for seriously ill children, including children living with cancer and heart conditions. Mathir explained that contributions help families access essential services and supplies, including transport to hospital appointments, medication and meals.
Pink Princess Projects, founded to support children and families facing medical and financial challenges, provides assistance with essential needs. The organisation is led by Zahira Mathir, who can be contacted on 072 721 7665.
However, the organisation faces difficulties meeting these needs every month, particularly as requests for assistance continue. Through the appeal, Mathir hopes to ease the financial burden on Zayyaan’s grandmother and help the young boy continue attending school and receiving the care he requires. For Zayyaan, the support could mean more than financial relief. It could help provide the stability he needs to continue learning and enjoying his childhood.
How the community can help
Residents, businesses and organisations willing to assist with Zayyaan’s school fees, nutritional supplements, nappies, transport or other essential needs are encouraged to contact Pink Princess Projects. Those who would like to learn more about the organisation’s work or support other children facing serious health challenges can also get in touch.
Contact: Zahira Mathir – Pink Princess Projects
Telephone: 072 721 7665
Every contribution, whether large or small, could help ease the pressure on a family determined to give Zayyaan the care and opportunities he deserves.
Leave a Reply