Patient ZM
This young man has been part of the Paedspal family for nearly 10 years. He lives with cystic fibrosis, a chronic condition that requires ongoing care and support.
We are pleased that he is currently experiencing a relatively stable period in his illness. Our support includes regular outpatient clinic visits and psychosocial care through our music therapist. When he is admitted to hospital with infections, our hospital-based team is there to support him and his family. But among the highlights of his outpatient visits is a special ritual: the photo shoot he regularly requests. Looking at the pictures, he never fails to exclaim, “Shew, I am so handsome and beautiful!” These moments remind us that paediatric palliative care is about so much more than managing illness. It is about seeing the child beyond the diagnosis, supporting emotional wellbeing, nurturing self-expression and making space for joy, dignity and connection. At Paedspal, we believe every child living with a serious health condition deserves compassionate, holistic care throughout their journey — and the opportunity to be celebrated for exactly who they are
Other stories
Patient ZM
This young man has been part of the Paedspal family for nearly 10 years. He lives with cystic fibrosis, a chronic condition that requires ongoing ...
Patient LJ
LJ, a young boy from the Northern Cape, was critically ill with end-stage renal disease after lifesaving surgery to remove both kidneys.
Patient: LM
Patient: LM LM, a young girl living with severe cerebral palsy, developmental delay, seizures and significant feeding difficulties, was referred to ...