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Fundraising for Juvan Meyer – Cystic Fibrosis, Bowel Atresia

Juvan Meyer

Juvan`s story:

“Baby Juvan Meyer was born at 30 weeks and 5 days, on the 14th of July 2023. He was 1.66kg and 40.5cm, and he had an enlarged abdomen.

When they started to examine him with X-rays, CT scans and blood work, they found a meconium cyst and he could not pass stool. They also found symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis.

On the 4th of August 2023 he had his first surgery, where they removed the cyst and they discovered that the small bowel had atresia. They had to cut off a piece and attache two colostomy bags, one at the small bowel and one at the colon.

He still can’t pass stool, so they did some more scans and it seems as if the colon also has atresia. They will have to remove that piece as well.

The doctor already told us what to expect. If they are right about the colon, Juvan will have to live with a colostomy bag for a few years, before they can do reconstructive surgery.

His cystic fibrosis (CF) tests also came back positive and he has two rare types of CF.

He is in Bloemfontein Mediclinic and we are from Olifantshoek. It is 420km from where he is. Our expenses to be with him are a lot and we can only go to him every second weekend. We also received a few medical bills already, which the medical aid did not pay. We need all the prayers and help we can get. Please pray for our baby.”

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Juvan by purchasing his “Breath is Life” bracelets. All proceeds are donated towards his ongoing medical care and expenses where needed – together we CAN make a difference in this precious boy`s life!

Alternatively, please consider a donation, any and all donations welcome. REF: Juvan Meyer.

Fundraising for Juvan Meyer

Breath is Life Bracelets

The Breath is Life Bracelets” consist of wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Bracelet Options:
1. White and grey with cross charm.
2. Blue, white and grey with angel charm.
3. Blue and grey with feet charm.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Breath is Life Bracelets Arms of Mercy NPC
Breath is Life Bracelets

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Fundraising for Dylan Beukes – Cerebral Palsy

Dylan Beukes

Dylan`s story:

“Baby Dylan was hospitalised with a fever on 13 March 2023 and diagnosed with an adenovirus infection. He was supposed to go home after a few days but that never happened.

The morning he was supposed to be released, something went horribly wrong. Dylan’s face went blue in his mother’s arms, he wasn’t breathing and his heart stopped. It took 3 tries to resuscitate him, during which he went without oxygen for about 30 minutes plus.

After the absolute horror this angel and his family endured, the doctors ruled that Dylan had severe brain damage and was classified as a vegetative state.

Baby Dylan had to get a trachea to assist with breathing because his throat muscles were extremely weak and had no cough and swallow reflexes, he had to get a feeding peck inserted as well.

They had to make specialised compression boots, to stop his leg muscles from pulling in on themselves.

Currently, Dylan is slowly improving but still needs a lot of care and medical support.

After four hospitalizations, Dylan is finally home, and his health care is in need of specific treatments and equipment. The list of medical criteria is growing and changing daily to sustain his medical need in aftercare.

The medical aid doesn’t cover everything Dylan needs for survival due to the classification as a ”special needs child” criteria. The family had to move in with the grandparents due to circumstances, and the level of assistance in Dylan’s daily daycare provision. It’s been hard on them but they’re by Dylan’s side every moment of every day.

Dylan was readmitted to hospital on the 6th of June 2023 due to Covid and pneumonia.”
He has been home now for 14 weeks (at time of publishing this post).

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Dylan by purchasing his “Step by Step” bracelets. All proceeds are donated towards his ongoing medical are and expenses – together we CAN make a difference in this baby boy`s life!

Alternatively, please consider a donation, any and all donations welcome. REF: Dylan Beukes.

Fundraising for Dylan Beukes

Step by Step Bracelets Arms of Mercy NPC

Step by Step Bracelets

The Step by Step Bracelets” consist of green, grey and beige wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
Hope / Cross / Tree of Life.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Step by Step Bracelets Arms of Mercy NPC
Step by Step Bracelets

Shop Online

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Fundraising for Divan Conway – Lissencephaly, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy

Divan Conway

Divan`s story:

Divan Conway is a 11 year old boy who was diagnosed with Lissencephaly (smooth brain), Cerebral Palsy, and Epilepsy (West Syndrome). He currently weighs 40kg, he can not walk or talk at all, and his mother has to carry him everywhere.

Divan suffers from extreme cerebral palsy therefore he cannot walk or sit on his own nor can he speak. As a result of constantly being in bed he developed chronic lung damage. He will be using nappies for the rest of his life and therefore also linen savers. 

Due to his special needs, mom had to leave her job to take care of him. 

Divan has epilepsy and has 5/6 fits on a daily basis, and is on six types of medication: Epilim, Keppra, Sabril, Rivotril, Epanutin and Ativan. The epilepsy is extremely challenging to control. 

He regularly contracts infection in his lungs due to all the mucus and lack of movement, and has been admitted to hospital repeatedly for Acute Upper Respiratory infection. Mom has to clean his throat and nose with a suction machine to remove all the mucus that he doesn’t swallow. Divan has a feeding tube because he can’t eat and drink, and can only consume milk and water. He also struggles with bladder infections because his bladder does not get rid of all the urine. It is mom`s duty to empty his bladder for him at home using catheters.

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Divan by purchasing any of his “Little Soldier” bracelets, “Hope for Divan” bracelets or key ring. All proceeds are donated towards his ongoing medical are and expenses – together we CAN make a difference in their lives!

Alternatively, please consider a donation, any and all donations welcome. REF: Divan Conway.

Fundraising for Divan Conway

Hope for Divan Bracelets Arms of Mercy NPC
Hope for Divan Bracelets Arms of Mercy NPC
Hope for Divan Bracelets

Hope for Divan Bracelets:
Shop Online

Hope for Divan Key Ring Arms of Mercy NPC
Hope for Divan Key Ring

Hope for Divan Key Ring:
Shop Online

Little Soldier Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Little Soldier Bracelets

Little Soldier Bracelets:
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15 October 2023: Fun Run at Sterkfontein Heritage Lodge Krugersdorp

Join our Fun Run to make a real change!

The Arms of Mercy team is hosting a 5 km fun run to raise money for our kids who are living with cancer, rare diseases, cerebral palsy and special needs, to help with their ongoing medical expenses – and we want you to be a part of it. This is the perfect opportunity to have some fun while making a positive difference in someone’s life. Plus, there are awesome prizes to be won!!

Please note that the date for the 5K Fun Run @ Sterkfontein Heritage Lodge Krugersdorp has been moved to 15 October 2023 due to a big function at the venue on the 8th – we apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope to see you there!

DATE: Sunday, 15 October 2023
VENUE: Sterkfontein Heritage Lodge (1 Wolf Street, Rand & Dal, Krugersdorp)
TIME: Registration at 07h00 ; Race starts at 09h00 (first 195 runners also gets a free carry bag!)
ENTRY FEE: R70 (includes a chicken fillet burger and a bottle of water)

For more information please contact Pierre on 065 381 4690.

Let`s run for a better future together!

– –
Special thanks to Arms of Mercy brand ambassador, Pierre Louw – Mr Krugersdorp 2022/2023 Winner, for hosting this event in aid of our children, and to everyone else involved in making this day a success. God bless.

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Fundraising for Brody Van Der Schyff – CHARGE Syndrome, Type II Caudal Regression Syndrome

Brody Van Der Schyff

Brody`s story:

“Brody Van Der Schyff, a 2-year-old resident from KZN, South Africa, was diagnosed with an extremely rare disease called CHARGE Syndrome when he was just 1.5 months old in 2021. Brody has spent more than 60% of his life in hospital, fighting life-threatening recurring bacterial infections. 

Brody was born with a Horseshoe kidney and Grade IV Vesicoureteral. He had multiple surgeries to try prevent infections and UTI’s. Due to Genital abnormalities, Brody underwent Ureteral reimplantation surgery before he was a year old. At the age of 18 months Brody went into Kidney failure and had his Horseshoe kidney separated and received a Left radical nephrectomy in December 2022. 

Over the last 7 months Brody had been living in absolute agony with 7 recurring E.COLI infections and multiple skin infections with constant itching and severe abdominal pain! On the 17th of July 2023 he was admitted for 19 days where they discovered he has a cyst on his right kidney, an inguinal hernia, a neurogenic bladder and multiple issues in his spine. After an MRI was done, he was diagnosed with Type II Caudal Regression Syndrome. 

His inguinal hernia repair surgery has provisionally been booked for the 19th of August 2023. 

We have been told by a Neurosurgeon that Brody would need spinal cord surgery to assist with the tethered cord as he can lose total control of his lower body. We will now first see a pediatric Neurologist to get a better understanding of what is going on in the spine as there are multiple issues to be looked at, and then we will see a Neurosurgeon to discuss what needs to happen and when. Brody will always have a neurogenic bladder, and this can lead to kidney damage. Due to Brody only having 1 precious Horseshoe Kidney, we need to protect his kidney. Brody has no bladder function control. His bladder does not empty out and this is what is causing the requiring Infections! We have been referred to go see a Pediatric Urologist In Umhlanga on the 24th of August to discuss a way forward for the neurogenic bladder.”

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Brody by purchasing one of his bracelets, two, or the whole set of three. All proceeds from the “Brody in Charge Bracelets” are donated towards his ongoing treatment, medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Brody van der Schyff.

Fundraising for Brody Van Der Schyff

Brody in Charge Bracelets

The Brody in Charge Bracelets” for consist of blue, coffee and white wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
1. Cross
2. Heart
3. Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

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Fundraising for Jan-Hendrik Louw – Malignant Neoplasm (Brain Tumour)

Jan-Hendrik Louw

Jan-Hendrik`s story:

Jan-Hendrik Louw is an 11-year-old boy from Klerksdorp in the North West Province, who was diagnosed with Malignant Neoplasm at the age of 6. He has a tumour on his brain, which causes neurological problems such as shaking and imbalance.

Sadly, the process of his treatment was slowed down because of Lockdown. The tumour has recently shown growth and the doctors are now starting with radiation to shrink the tumour, as they can’t operate to remove it because of it`s location. Due to the tumour, Jan-Hendrik has a slight speech impairment and is also totally deaf in his right ear.

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Jan-Hendrik by purchasing one of his bracelets, two, or the whole set of three. All proceeds from the “Faithful and Worthy Bracelets” are donated towards his ongoing treatment, medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Jan-Hendrik Louw.

Fundraising for Jan-Hendrik Louw

Faithful and Worthy Bracelets

The Faithful and Worthy Bracelets” for Jan-Hendrik consist of white and grey wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
1. Butterfly
2. Diamante Heart
3. Faith & Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Faithful and Worthy Bracelets

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Fundraising for Mieke van den Berg – Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Mieke van den Berg

Mieke`s story:

“Mieke Van den Berg is an 8-year-old girl from Rustenburg who was diagnosed in November 2022 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), better known as blood and bone marrow cancer. Mieke is not healthy at all and is currently in a critical condition regarding her heart. She can’t walk, she doesn’t want to eat and she is very weak.

Mieke will have to go through to Pretoria for chemo three times a week for the next 24 months. She will also have bone marrow drawn to monitor the cancer, every third week for the next 3 months. Mieke will not be allowed to return to a normal school, because Leukemia affects her immune system and breaks it down completely. Having said that, she is very susceptible to any virus and/or infection. She has to wear masks when we go to town, and we as parents, have to wear gloves every time when she gets chemo.

Within the next two weeks, she will get a Chemo Pod implanted in her chest, which is implanted under her skin with a tube that is inserted directly into her main artery. This device is then used to give her chemo every week, three times a week, instead of inserting a drip every time or going home with a drip.

The chemo she is currently receiving is: Doxorubicin and Vincristin, two very aggressive chemo treatments. Vincristine is injected directly into her spine by means of a lumber punch injection, every fourth week under anesthesia. Doxorubicin is currently given directly through a drip, and from next week she will receive it through the chemo pod. Her white blood cell count is still low, because of the chemo, but her red blood cell count is increasing, very slowly, but it is increasing.

Mieke is currently being treated at Dr George Mukhari Hospital at Ga-Rankuwa.
The Medical Aid is busy to Reinstate so everything is on hold.”

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Mieke. All proceeds from the “Miracle for Mieke Bracelets” are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference and help a child in need.

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Mieke van den Berg.

Fundraising for Mieke van den Berg

Miracle for Mieke Bracelets

The Miracle for Mieke Bracelets” consist of coral and silver wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
Butterfly / Filigree Heart / Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Miracle for Mieke Bracelets
Miracle for Mieke Bracelets

Shop Online

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Fundraising for Jasmijn Duvenhage – Rare Disorder IDIC(15) with intractable Epilepsy, Severe Hypotonia, Gastrointestinal Dysmotility, Recurrent Pneumonia

Jasmijn Duvenhage

Jasmijn`s story:

“Meet beautiful little Jasmijn Duvenhage. She is our little superhero, fighting, like only a superhero can, since the day that she was born. Jasmijn was born via C/section with low Apgar scores and hypotonia and started choking, then turning blue on day two of life. Initially diagnosed with severe reflux, with temporal lobe epilepsy later confirmed at the age of 4 months. Complicated with West syndrome, diagnosed two months later.

By the Lord’s Mercy and Grace, West syndrome resolved at 10 months of age after battling through four months of very expensive steroid therapy combined with specific anticonvulsants.

Due to her underlying genetic condition (IDIC 15), Jasmijn’s condition was complicated with several different forms of uncontrolled epilepsy requiring yet another multitude of expensive anticonvulsant therapies, which (still to date) has not completely aborted the seizure activity. Little Jasmijn continues to have multiple daily seizures ranging in severity from quick and mild to completely life-threatening.

The ketogenic diet had been added about five months ago with a favourable, but still incomplete effect. This is still being titrated by a Specialist Dietician in the field and there is always hope.

Unfortunately this brave little girl, of whom her parents are very proud, started combatting recurrent viral pneumonia in mid 2022, these requiring admission for non-invasive ventilation leading to prolonged and very complicated hospital stays.

Her mother, despite being a medical professional, has not been able to go back to work since little Jasmijn had been born. She has been needed next to her little girl’s bedside to assist with her complicated therapeutic regime at home, as well as the hospital. This causes extreme financial strain as their home and their future plans were built on two reliable salaries.

To make matters worse, the medical aid has been helpful, but does not cover most of the expenses needed for Jasmijn’s basic care and the family is still in the process of reapplying for PMB cover. They have depleted their savings on their precious daughter’s care, with Jasmijn’s father working full time to support their family.

Thank you for supporting this brave little girl and our fight by purchasing one of these lovely bracelets from Arms of Mercy. Our Lord Jesus Christ bless you.”

Please open your heart and support our fundraiser for Jasmijn. All proceeds from the “Divine Grace Bracelets” are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference and help a child in need.

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Jasmijn Duvenhage.

Fundraising for Jasmijn Duvenhage

Divine Grace Bracelets

The Divine Grace Bracelets” for Jasmijn consist of wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Colours: Turquoise and Silver mix.

Charm options:
Dragonfly / Star / Flower.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Divine Grace Bracelets

Shop Online

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Fundraising for Wyatt Liberty – Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) & Autism

Wyatt Liberty

Wyatt`s story:

“Our Story begins on the day of 1st of December 2012, when my husband Neil and I got married.

We have a baby girl named Ava Eliza Liberty. Ava was born on 03 April 2016. She is a talkative, inquisitive and a stunning rising star.

When Ava was 9 months old, we received our miracle surprise blessing who made his presence known. A healthy baby boy, Wyatt Ethan Liberty made our family complete on the 26 February 2018. A very active boy with an amazing wonderful imagination. Always playing, a typical boy that loved any game that includes a ball made him happy. Apart from the occasional seasonal allergies and cold he was always a very healthy boy.

Exciting times for our family, we started potty training Wyatt – he was doing so well, and was on his way to be fully potty trained until it all suddenly changed.

On the 13th of April 2022 he started suffering from constipation over the long weekend. With the fact that he was potty training it didn’t alarm us too much. We got him some medication at the local pharmacy. By Tuesday we took him to the doctor. On the 19th April 2022 the doctor advised that he is pale and that we should take him for blood work. The GP contacted us the same night and advised that we need to come and collect a referral letter for Karl Bremmer hospital as he has a septic blood infection. Karl Bremmer transferred us to Tygerberg hospital at 00:00 hours -observations and blood works were done. The next day, Wyatt received platelets and red blood cells (blood transfusion).

Due to the fact that Wyatt is 4years of age and not speaking, they advised that he should be tested for Autism. His hearing test was perfect, and they made an appointment for us to see the speech therapist and Occupational therapist.

From the 19th until the 24th of April they completed constant testing and on the 3rd of May 2022 they drew blood, discharged us and advised that they will contact us in a week to advise on the blood results.

On the 19th of May I was contacted at work and was told that the blood works are perfect and that he is discharged. They confirmed that it was a very bad viral infection.

Sadly, on the 16th of May, Wyatt started developing bumps on his head and what looks like spider bites on his legs that made him lose feeling in his leg. Because Wyatt doesn’t speak, we took him to the GP and we thought he had mumps, so the GP advised just for safety and with his history, to get blood work done.

The same day the GP contacted us and advised that his blood works are low and referred us to the hospital, this time to Tygerberg hospital directly and recommended that they complete a bone marrow extraction for testing. The hospital advised that due to his recent blood transfusion they would rather give it 2weeks and get the blood tested again. In the interim while we are at home, we should monitor him closely and see if the bumps increase in size or if he develops a fever or shortness of breath. They gave us a date to return back to hospital on the 6th of June 2022.

On the 23rd of May we took Wyatt into hospital as the bumps increased and started to become inflamed. They drew blood and on the 24th of May 2022, Wyatt was diagnosed with ALL (Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia).

He received his first chemotherapy on the same day as he was in a favorable stage and they wanted to start with the treatment as soon as possible. Friday the 27th of May they did a lumber punch.

Wyatt then received Chemotherapy every 2nd day. On the 3rd of June they completed his 2nd lumber punch. He then completed his 10-day trial of the 1st chemotherapy.

On the 13th of June we received the news that stronger chemotherapy needs to be administered as the 1st round of chemo did not kill any cancer cells.

On the day of my only son’s diagnosis, our entire world and life was turned upside down where nothing makes sense anymore. The only thing that keeps us sane and strong is our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and believing that our story will be a story of surviving, victory and grace. A true testimony of a miracle working God.

Wyatt was also diagnosed with Autism on 19 June 2022.

The mere fact that my son shows so much power and endurance and through all of this still smiles and laughs gives us strength to carry on fighting with him every single day.

We have maxed our credit cards. Bank balance is in overdraft that is maxed. My amazing husband gave up his job to be with my son in hospital for treatment and we are surviving on personal loans that have been maxed. But the grace of God has carried us this far and he will never forsake us.”

All things are possible – (I can endure all these things through the power of the ONE who gives me strength – Philippians 4:13).

Please open your heart to Wyatt and his family today and support our fundraiser. All the proceeds from the “Life is Beautiful Bracelets” are donated towards his ongoing medical care, treatment and therapy. Together we CAN make a positive difference in his life!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Wyatt Liberty.

Fundraising for Wyatt Liberty

Life is Beautiful Bracelets  © Arms of Mercy NPC

Life is Beautiful Bracelets

The Life is Beautiful Bracelets” for Wyatt consist of wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Colours: Blue, Pink, Pearl, Grey mix.

Charm options:
Faith / Hope / Love.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Life is Beautiful Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Life is Beautiful Bracelets

Shop Online

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2 March 2023: Arms of Mercy Golf Day at Krugersdorp Golf Club

arms of mercy golf day

We are thrilled to announce our next Golf Day at Krugersdorp Golf Course on Tuesday 2 March 2023!!

You can support this charity event by buying a 4-ball and/or sponsor a hole on behalf of your company. It is a wonderful marketing opportunity for your business, and there will also be prizes for the longest drive, closest to the pin and much more!

We wish for this event to be a great success as it is in aid of Arms of Mercy NPC. Our aim is to raise funds and awareness to help our children and we can only do it with your support. Please sign up to get involved and book your 4-ball for this much anticipated event! Even Ian Macintosh knows that Krugersdorp Golf Course is “generally known as the best kept secret”.

Arms of Mercy Golf Day
Golf Course: Krugersdorp Golf Club
Date: 2 March 2023
Registration: 08h30
Tee Off Time: 10h00 (start tee off from hole 1 and 10)

Hole Sponsorship: R1500 per hole.

Four Ball Cost: R2500 (Four Ball Alliance 3 scores to count).

Golf carts are not included but can be reserved for you at an additional R350 per cart which will be payable directly to the Pro Shop by you during registration on the day. Please remember to indicate if you wish to reserve a cart.

Book your four ball: Please contact Nadine Van Staden on 082 652 8263 or e-mail nadine@jdncelectrical.co.za to make your booking or for more information.

“Based in the western suburb of Rant-En-Dal, – loosely translated from Afrikaans as ”Hills and Valleys” – Krugersdorp Golf Club is one of the oldest clubs on the West Rand. You are very much out in the country when playing this fine golf course, and the huge variety of colourful bird life, indigenous trees, shrubbery, wild, exotic flowering plants and gardens which inhabit the area make the players stroll against this picturesque African backdrop an extremely pleasant and gratifying visual experience.

At a length of 6426 metres from the club tees, Krugersdorp’s stunning par 72 championship layout is a tough but fair test of golf, and this fine piece of course architecture and design requires intelligent, accurate play from tee to green and a good touch when you find them! Depending on the individuals’ prowess, the four outstanding par fives are reachable in two powerful blows but, more often than not, the cautious three-shot route to the green will result in a safe par or possible single-putt birdie. The ten par fours which nestle perfectly into Krugersdorp’s gently rolling and undulating landscape never look out of place and demand accuracy and shape of shot from the tee in order to leave a choice of long, medium and short iron approaches into well protected, fast, undulating greens. Hit the target on four par threes of matchless beauty and a birdie or safe par could be your reward, but danger awaits any misshits or loose play in the form of heavy rough, water and substantial bunkering, thereby placing the golfers short game skills under close scrutiny.

The comfortable clubhouse with its large, thatched African ”Lapa” (gazebo) is the perfect place to wind down after a pleasant round of golf with a long, cold drink in hand, viewing yet another stunning African sunset! Serviced by a highly efficient, friendly staff, Krugersdorp has full bar, restaurant and conference facilities and its affable members will be only too glad to join visiting groups of fellow golfers and help them navigate their way through what can be a long and difficult nineteenth hole!”

Review by William Wilson of Egoli Golf – krugersdorpgc.com/about-the-club

If you can`t attend please share this fundraiser event with your friends and family and business colleagues. Donations are also very welcome. Supporting Arms of Mercy is an opportunity to help give a child a better quality life, and a brighter future. Together we can change the world!

For any enquiries please contact Nadine Van Staden on 082 652 8263 or e-mail nadine@jdncelectrical.co.za or contact Koos Mollentze on 082 806 6203.

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Fundraising for Lenè Grobler – Prader-Willi Syndrome, ADHD, Intellectual Developmental Delays

Lenè Grobler

Lenè`s story:

“Lenè was born a bit early at 36.5 weeks but she was a normal healthy baby as far as the eye could see. When she turned 1 years old I started to worry because she was far behind her cousin who was 2 months older than her. We stayed in a small town with no therapists and doctors, and my father said we must be patient with her as she might just be a bit slow.

When she turned 19 months old she started to lift herself and at 21 months she was walking, but not that well. We moved back to Klerksdorp when she was about 2.5 years old. I was still worried at this stage as she was still on nappies and did not talk. We took her to the Potch University – Care2Kids program to get her assessed and see if there is maybe something wrong. After this I finally got a school that had the time to care for her as the special needs school had her for 1 week and asked us to rather take her out as there is something seriously wrong with her.

In February 2022 she was assessed by Dr J.C.K Strauss who found her to have an intellectual disability as well as a serious communication delay. We started looking around for a Paediatric Neurologist to assess Lenè as we need assistance with treatment and advise on the way forward. In May 2022 she went to see Dr C Erasmus in Pretoria who diagnosed her with Prader Willi Syndrome and ADHD among a list of things. She has a wide range of symptoms and we are eager to find answers so that we can help her have a better quality life.

Lenè turns 5 years old in February 2023. She is currently on 2ml Risperdal a day. This alone is R1900.00 a month. The day to day from our medical covers it but this will soon be depleted. Thereafter, all medicine must be paid in cash. School costs R1850.00 a month and then nappies work out to R165.00 a week. I cannot look for better employment as I need to take off a lot, when she gets sick or is too difficult, so I only get commission on cases completed… no work, no pay.”

Please open your heart to Lenè and support our fundraiser for this family in need – all proceeds from the “Uplifted in Faith” bracelets are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a difference!

Alternatively, please consider making a donation. Any and all donations welcome. REF: Lenè Grobler.

Fundraising for Lenè Grobler

Uplifted in Faith Bracelets

The “Uplifted in Faith Bracelets” consist of grey and white wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
Heart / Faith / Butterfly.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

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Fundraising for Amoré De Wet – 18Q Deletion Syndrome

Amoré de Wet

Amoré`s story:

“Amoré is a tenacious 7-year-old with 18Q Deletion Syndrome. She was diagnosed at six weeks old. 18Q Deletion Syndrome is a rare chromosomal disorder affecting the 18th chromosome. One in 40,000 newborns is affected by this chromosome disorder. There is no cure for her condition.

Symptoms range largely from case to case. Some features include low muscle tone, hearing loss, sight problems, heart defects, kidney problems and features of autism.

Amoré had open heart surgery at 6 months old and sees her cardiologist every 2nd year. She has been diagnosed with Nystagmus and Strabismus and wears glasses to help with these conditions.

There is currently no PMB for her condition and therefore all of her specialist consultations and therapy i.e. Occupational therapy, Speech therapy sessions are paid from their medical aid savings account which is generally exhausted within the first three months of the year. Most of her specialists are also not contracted in with the medical aid and therefore they need to pay cash for their visits. She is non-verbal but they pray for an augmentative and alternative communication device, which the medical aid does not pay for.”

By supporting our fundraiser for Amoré you can make a positive difference in her life – all proceeds from the “Never Give Up” bracelets are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN change the world and help a child in need!

Alternatively, please consider making a donation. Any and all donations welcome. REF: Amoré De Wet.

Fundraising for Amoré De Wet

Never Give Up Bracelets

The Never Give Up Bracelets” for Amoré consist of white, blue and silver wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options:
Angel / Cross / Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

Never Give Up Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Never Give Up Bracelets

Shop Online

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Mandela Day 2022: “Do what you can, with what you have, wherever you are.”

Mandela day Arms of Mercy Hannah`s Place of Safety

The essence of Mandela Day – take action, inspire change, and make every day a Mandela Day – is more important than ever before.

Source: mandeladay.com

This year on Mandela Day, AOM have chosen to take action and pay it forward to Hannah`s Place of Safety in Cape Town, as the work that they do is so very important, and very close to my heart. Hannah`s Place of Safety is an NPO that render services to various departments of Social Development for babies 0-1 years old in need of care and protection.

They render a free of charge service to the (Department of Social Development) caring for children in need of (Care and Protection). The duration of each child’s stay can range between 3-6 months, case dependent. Most of their babies are born from drug addicted parents and Alcohol users, and they also care for babies who have been removed from their families due to circumstances. Visit their website at www.hannahsplaceofsafety.org to learn more.

“Together as a nation, we have the obligation to put sunshine into the hearts of our little ones. They are our precious possessions. They deserve what happiness life can offer.” – Nelson Mandela

A baby is an innocent, fragile being that cannot fend for itself and needs much love and care. Let`s honour Madiba`s memory, legacy and love of children by giving back to the community and those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We invite you to take hands with us for Mandela Day and to make a difference in the lives of our children by supporting our fundraiser, or donate R67 (or more) by using the banking details below.
All funds will be donated to Hannah`s Place of Safety.

DONATIONS

To make a donation, please use the banking details below and use Hannah`s Place as reference. Any and all donations are very much appreciated.

Account Holder: Arms of Mercy NPC
Bank: Standard Bank
Account Type: Cheque Account
Account Number: 10114699702
Branch Code: 051001
Swift Code:  SBZA ZA JJ
REF: HANNAH`S PLACE


Hannah`s Place Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Hannah`s Place Bracelets

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Hannah`s Place Bracelets

Hannah`s Place Bracelets consist of wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers, and a choice of two charms. Price is R40 per bracelet.

Colour options: Pink or Blue.
Charm options: Hope / Love / Joy / Hand with “handmade” inscription.

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28 May: Godfrey Williams present Heal the World and Make it a Better Place @ Koffi Terapi – Tyger Valley

godfrey williams present heal the world and make it a better place

You are invited to join us on the 28th of May 2022 @ Koffi Terapi Restaurant, Tyger Valley, Willowbridge Mall. It is a Differently Abled Event where we raise funds and awareness of different diseases for Arms Of Mercy (AOM).

Speaker: Karin Harmse (AOM Founder)
Annelle

Good line up with music to enjoy yourself with your spouse or friend. Artists include:
AOM Ambassador Godfrey WilliamsGodfrey Williams Artist Page
Winston Moses
Jeandre Odendaal
Gaynor Fritz

Limited seats available, make your booking today to avoid disappointment. It’s going to be lekker, you don`t want to miss this!

Tickets: R100 p.p.
Book now on 081 765 1288 / 072 029 2240

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Fundraising for Kian Ludick – Nephroblastoma, Wilms Tumor

Kian Ludick

Kian`s story:

“Kian had been having a lot of ear infections in the beginning of 2021. Our GP referred us to the nose, ear, and throat Specialist as well as a speech therapist, because he has not begun to speak and was nearing the age of 2 and they suspected that he has autism. On the date of his appointment he did not give his co-operation with the speech therapist and they decided to make arrangements with a Pediatrician to put him under local anesthetics while they conduct the ear test, and because he was not well, the pediatrician decided to do a full exam also while he was under. He discovered something hard on the left side of his tummy. We were sent for a sonar where they discovered the enlarged kidney. They did a CT scan where they saw the abnormal tissue on both kidneys.

Kian was diagnosed with Nephroblastoma on both kidneys, 26 March 2021, as well as an enlarged left kidney. He has been having monthly MRI scans and blood work in Johannesburg where he is treated by Prof Janet Poole. On the 12th of December 2021, he had his 3rd scan and they discovered the Wilms tumor that developed on the left kidney. He started with his weekly pre-operative chemo on 31 January 2021 in Kimberley, which he gets once a week for 6 weeks. On week 5 and 6 they will do a scan and reassess, he will also be having maintenance chemo after surgery.

The chemo has affected him worse than what we expected. He was admitted 4 days after his 1st session, and has been put on a double dose of blood pressure medication. He had moisture on his lungs when his oxygen levels dropped to 65 and had to be put on oxygen. He had an allergic reaction to morphine, and had a seizure because of nausea medication. He also has a feeding tube. On the 17th of February 2022 he developed a fever and was admitted where they did blood work and discovered he had 2 viruses and his blood counts were extremely low.

He finished his last round of chemo on 21 March 2022. He was admitted and had a blood transfusion and platelets because it was too low. He also had an MRI but we have not received his report or any update when and if they will be operating. Kian is seeing a dietician as well as a speech- and occupational therapist because of signs of autism.”

Update 28/02/2023:

“Kian had an operation on 12 April 2022 where half of his left kidney was removed. The surgery was successful and he was discharged on 18 April 2022.

He started with 27 weeks of weekly chemo on 25 April 2022. We had to drive from Kuruman to Kimberley every Monday.  He was sick most of the time, could not eat at all and they had to give him a feeding tube. Kian is now on chronic hypertension medication. Sometimes he could not get the chemo because his neutrophil levels were too low. He also got occupational therapy, speech therapy and physio weekly because of the autism, and he lost mobility in his legs. He finished his treatment on the 28 November 2022 and had an MRI scan, they were happy with his progress, however he still needs maintenance chemo as the nephroblastomatosis are still on both kidneys in order to suppress any more tumors from developing, and to save what is left of his kidneys.

He started with his maintenance chemo on the 11th of January 2023. They have adjusted one of the chemo treatments because it is affecting his mobility and that is a concern for them. The physio therapist said she has spoken with an orthopedic specialist and suggested that a tension release operation should be done. The pediatric oncologist agrees with us that the cause of his immobility is not a sensory thing but a result of the negative effects of the chemo treatment. Will be consulting with them again on 07.03.2023 when we are in Kimberley for treatment.”

By supporting our fundraiser for Kian you can be directly involved in making a positive difference in his life. All proceeds from the “Love and Faith” bracelets are donated towards his ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN change the world, and help a child in need!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Kian Ludick.

Fundraising for Kian Ludick

Love and Faith Bracelets

The Love and Faith” bracelets for Kian consist of wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Colour Options:
1. white & blue
2. grey and blue
3. white, grey, blue mix

Charm Options:
1. faith & cross
2. love you heart
3. believe and hope

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

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Fundraising for Lirie van der Merwe – Paraplegia, Respiratory inability, Osteopenia, Epilepsy

Lirie van der Merwe

Lirie`s story:

Lirie van der Merwe is 10 months old and has paraplegia from the chest-line down, respiratory inability, multi-lobar lung collapse, osteopenia, and epilepsy.

Lirie was born at 32 weeks. After 4 weeks in the NICU she suffered a neck injury that led to paraplegia from the chest-line down. Due to this, her diaphragm is paralyzed and she is unable to breathe on her own and is on a home ventilator to breathe for her. She also suffered from a femur break due to her bones being so brittle.

Lirie is currently at home but her home-care is R28 000.00 per month. She gets her feeds through a feeding tube and she is suctioned regularly. She also has a cough assist to get her secretions loose and keep her lungs from collapsing. She has a vigorous daily medical and mediation routine that needs to be followed. The Medical aid is depleted, and Lirie needs her physio and speech therapy sessions.

By supporting our fundraising efforts you can be directly involved in making a positive difference in Lirie`s life. All proceeds from the “Shine Your Light” bracelets are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN change the world, and help a child in need!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Lirie van der Merwe.

Fundraising for Lirie van der Merwe

Shine Your Light Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC

Shine Your Light Bracelets

The Shine Your Light” bracelets for Lirie consist of pink wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Charm Options: Diamante Cross / Diamante Crown / Diamante Bird.

To place an order, contact the agent in your area or shop online.

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4 June – 6 August: Miss Arms of Mercy 2022 – Miss Photogenic & Talent Competition

As some of you may know, we are gearing up for our annual Miss Arms of Mercy at the Arto Theatre in Pretoria! We have had many requests from members of the community to become a part of this fundraising event, therefore the Miss Arms of Mercy 2022 Pageant has been postponed from 5 March to 4 June 2022 to make it a bigger fundraiser, featuring more categories! We are beyond grateful and humbled to the community for wanting to get involved. This is going to be such a wonderful event and we also have a few celebrities on board. God is working in mysterious ways!

New Dates & Categories are as follows:

4 June: Miss Arms of Mercy Fundraiser Pageant – see entry detail here
5 June: Drama & Acting (see gallery images below for details)
18 June: Dance Your Heart Out (see gallery images below for details)
19 June: Sing Your Heart Out (see gallery images below for details)
6 August: Gala Awards Evening – Perform Your Heart Out for Arms of Mercy
This will be the prestige Arms of Mercy Gala Awards which promise to bring you marvelous talent and professional entertainment!

A massive thank you to everybody who came on board to make this event a huge success, we are super excited!
For any information please contact the Event Coordinator – Monique van Schalkwyk on 081 428 5675.

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4 June: Miss Arms of Mercy 2022 – Fundraiser Pageant @ Arto Theater Pretoria

Miss Arms of Mercy 2022

Are you charity driven, ambitious, a leader and innovative? Then this pageant is for you! There is still enough time, so hurry and send your photo to enter!

Due to so many requests from members of the community to become a part of this fundraising event, the Miss Arms of Mercy Fundraiser Pageant has been postponed from 5 March to 4 June 2022. The Pageant will now be part of a bigger fundraiser which will feature more categories as well as a Gala Awards Evening on the 6th of August 2022.

Miss Arms of Mercy – Fundraiser Pageant
Date: 4 June 2022
Venue: Arto Theater,Pretoria
Registration: 09h00-10h00
Pageant Starts: 10h30
Entry Fee: R350
Spectator Fee: R80

First paid entries walk last
Models will walk 1 x 1.5 T Ramp Only
One Outfit – Formal Pageant Dress – No Ball Gowns

Age Groups: 3-6 / 7-9 / 10-12 / 13-15 / 16-18 / 19+ / Mrs

Top 5 will be announced in each age group!
Winners will receive a Sash, Crown & Cash Prize!
1st & 2nd Princess will receive a Sash & Crown!
Debutante Junior & Senior Winner will be crowned and will receive Sash , Crown & Cash Prize!

This year we will also include Miss Photogenic in all categories and yes, you will feature in a top class magazine!

Our vision and mission is to provide awareness and financial aid to as many children with life-threatening diseases as possible through various fundraising initiatives. The main purpose of the winner of our Miss AOM Pageant is to help raise awareness, and funds for children with cancer, rare diseases and special needs. Together we can change the world for our sick children in need. 🎗

Miss Arms of Mercy pageant will make use of authentic judges and the scores of each contestant will be available directly after the crowning ceremony.

HOW TO ENTER
Please send Name & Surname, Age and Proof of payment to Karin 076 463 0821 / missaom2022@gmail.com / or Monique 081 428 5675.

BANKING DETAILS
Account Holder: Arms of Mercy NPC
Bank: Standard Bank
Account Type: Cheque Account
Account Number: 10114699702
Branch Code: 051001
Ref: MISS AOM + Model`s Name

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7 May: Differently Abled Family Day @ Grondpad Leefstyl Restaurant – Kempton Park

You are invited to join us on the 7th of May 2022 at Grondpad Leefstyl Restaurant in Pomona for our “Differently Abled Family Day”. We are looking forward to making new friends and catching up with old ones so don`t be shy, make a day of it! The day promises to be a lot of fun with MC Johan Fourie, motivational speaker, Verna Mulder (princess Mienke`s mommy), as well as a great line up of artists including Raymond Ray, Johandre Kruger, Tertius van Tonder and more!!

Limited seats available, make your booking today to avoid disappointment, it`s going to be a day you don`t want to miss! For bookings you are welcome to contact any one of the following people:
– Ryno Mulder: 076 865 5200
– Sunette Botha: 071 971 8355
– Nadine van Staden: 082 652 8263
– Karin Harmse: 076 463 0821

See you there!

DATE: 07 May 2022 @ 12H00
VENUE: Grondpad Leefstyl Restaurant (185 High Rd Bredel, Pomona, Kempton Park, 1619) – Sponsored by Marechelle Country Estate
EVENT: Differently Abled Family Day – Bring & Braai!
ENTRANCE: R100 per adult // R50 per child under 12yr.

U word hartlik uitgenooi om saam met ons op die 7de Mei 2022 by Grondpad Leefstyl Restaurant in Pomona aan te sluit vir ons “Differently Abled Family Day”. Ons sien uit daarna om nuwe vriende te maak en met oues op te vang so moenie skaam wees nie, maak ‘n dag daarvan! Die dag beloof om baie pret te wees saam met MC Johan Fourie, motiveringspreker, Verna Mulder (prinses Mienke se mamma), asook ‘n wonderlike reeks kunstenaars insluitend Raymond Ray, Johandre Kruger, Tertius van Tonder en meer!!

Beperkte sitplekke beskikbaar, bespreek vandag nog om teleurstelling te voorkom, dit gaan ‘n dag wees wat jy nie wil mis nie! Vir besprekings kontak gerus enige een van die volgende persone:
– Ryno Mulder: 076 865 5200
– Sunette Botha: 071 971 8355
– Nadine van Staden: 082 652 8263
– Karin Harmse: 076 463 0821

Sien jou daar!




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Fundraising for Miliah Prinsloo – Rare Genetic Disorder

Miliah Prinsloo

Miliah`s story:

Miliah is just over 3 years old and has an incredibly rare genetic disorder, 16q11.2q21 duplication – which was discovered only recently after years of tests and doctors’ visits. She struggles through global developmental delay, speech impairment, seizures, a heart defect, self-harming issues, obesity and other ailments.

Miliah has already gone through:

3 MRI’s; ECG Tests; Ph7 Test; Tube feedings; Biopsy; 2 Berium Swallows; 2 Metabolic Tests; 2 Geneticist consultation;
Physio since 8 months and needs to continue; Speech therapist, she had every two weeks; Grommets put in; CT Scan;
Xrays; Sonars; Scopes done; Occupational therapy; Correctional shoes (for a year – which hasn’t helped, hence why she will now need to undergo surgery).

Miliah was also diagnosed with chronic sinusitis, which means she’s sick most of the time, with chronic reflux and dysmotility.

There is not much information on her chromosome genetic disorder as it is so rare, which causes a lot of uncertainty, even for some Drs.

Miliah needs ongoing therapy (speech, OT, PT), frequent neurological check-ups, testing and medications, Specialists for her stomach and immune system, as well as many others.

She had surgery on the 18th of January 2022 in order to correct her metatarsus adductus to help her jump, run and walk normally. The bones had to be broken and placed correctly, and Miliah is due back in theatre in 3 weeks. Recovery will take longer than expected (around 6 months to a year) and she won’t be able to go to school for the next 5 to 6 months. During these first 3 weeks Miliah will not be able to walk at all and her legs need to stay elevated, either at home in bed, or on the couch, or in a wheelchair when walking around the complex or anything.

Her mommy works part-time to be there for all her go-to therapies, hospital check-ups and specialist visits, but she had to stop all forms of therapy due to financial constraints.

Please open your heart and support our fundraising efforts for Miliah – all proceeds from the “Crown of Hope” and the “Incredibly Precious” bracelets are donated towards her ongoing medical care and expenses. Together we CAN make a positive difference and help a child in need. Together we can change her world!

Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome. REF: Miliah Prinsloo.

Follow her Facebook Page – Helping Miliah – for live updates on her journey.

Fundraising for Miliah Prinsloo

Crown of Hope Bracelets - Arms of Mercy NPC

Crown of Hope Bracelets

The Crown of Hope Bracelets” consist of wooden beads with crystal, silver and diamante fillers.

Colour options: Pink / Beige / Grey.
Charm options: Diamante Crown / Diamante Flower / Hope-Awareness Ribbon.

Crown of Hope Bracelets - Arms of Mercy NPC
Crown of Hope Bracelets

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Incredibly Precious Bracelets

The Incredibly Precious Bracelets” consist of turquoise wooden beads with silver and diamante fillers.

Charm options: Dragonfly / Feather / Cross.

Incredibly Precious Bracelets © Arms of Mercy NPC
Incredibly Precious Bracelets

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