Imagine noticing something subtle, a tiny change in your child, and being told it’s likely nothing. That’s exactly what happened to Leandre Lottering’s mom in 2023 when her daughter’s left eye began turning inward. Doctors at National Hospital in Bloemfontein reassured her it would probably correct itself. A mother’s heart, trusting in medical expertise, held onto that hope.
But a mother’s instinct is a powerful thing. In April 2024, the quiet concern returned with an undeniable urgency. Something still wasn’t right. Back at the hospital, after two anxious nights by Leandre’s side and countless tests, the news shattered their world: Leandre had Retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive eye cancer in her left eye.
The Battle Intensifies: Cancer Spreads to Her Brain
The shock was immediate, the need for action critical. They were rushed to Universitas Hospital for urgent treatment. There, another devastating blow landed: the cancer had already spread to her brain. Little Leandre, at just a tender age, immediately underwent a lumbar puncture, blood tests, and began chemotherapy.
She now bravely faces chemotherapy every four weeks, a grueling schedule for anyone, let alone a child. Already, she has lost vision in one eye, and the full extent of the cancer’s spread to her brain remains a terrifying unknown. They are still waiting for crucial answers about this incredibly serious development.
Her next hospital visit is slated for the 2nd of July 2025. This means another round of intensive testing, another lumbar puncture, and another day of holding on to every sliver of hope.
How You Can Help
This journey is incredibly painful, uncertain, and emotionally draining for Leandre and her mother. Yet, through it all, Leandre fights with a courage that defies her years, and her mother clings to unwavering faith that God is still writing this story.
While thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated and powerful, the reality of Leandre’s battle, especially with the cancer’s spread to her brain, comes with immense and ongoing medical expenses. The costs associated with specialised cancer treatments, prolonged hospital stays, repeated vital tests, and potential future therapies are astronomical and relentless. Her needs are immediate and critical.
This is where your support becomes absolutely vital.
We believe in the strength and compassion of our Arms of Mercy community.
Leandre Lottering is not just a child with cancer; she is a warrior wrapped in love, strength, and hope. By contributing to her ongoing medical expenses, you are directly investing in her fight, giving her the best possible chance at a future.
If Leandre’s story has touched your heart, please consider making a donation today to help ease the crushing financial burden on Leandre’s family and ensure she receives the continuous, critical care she desperately needs to overcome this aggressive cancer. Every donation, no matter the size, directly contributes to Leandre’s ability to continue her fight. We have also launched a heartfelt bracelet project to help raise funds for her ongoing medical expenses to further support her journey.
Make a Donation
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: LEANDRE LOTTERING
Alternatively, make a donation online with Payfast.
