The saying “fight like a preemie” has really manifested itself, when it comes to Tlhonolofatso Makheka, who was born prematurely, at only 710g. He fought and continues to fight as he reached 100 days in NICU on, 22/3/23, and by now has almost tripled his birth weight.
The name Tlhonolofatso, means blessings, the name reflects the struggles the parents had to go through to conceive and having a miscarriage in between. As a result, Tlhonolofatso is a great blessing to his parents.
The pregnancy journey for the Makheka’s was not easy at all. Early in the pregnancy, Doctor Liphapang, Busamed Harrismith Private Hospital Residential Obstetrician and Gynecologist managed to diagnose mom with high blood pressure at an early stage and she frequently had to come for follow up consultations. For her safety as well as Tlhonolofatso, he was delivered at only 30 weeks, as to try and save his precious life.
“To both of us it was it was overwhelming, as it was our first time going through a caesarian section and we did not expect to see such a tiny baby, and this made us rethink on whether he will make it or not,” advised Mr and Mrs Makheka.
The post-delivery journey has also been emotional for the family. “Having your baby in hospital for several months and not being able to take him home is difficult. Seeing him surrounded by lifesaving machines, by doctors and nurses, is not easy,” stated Mr Makheka.
Baby Makheka is a fighter - he was removed from the high-flow oxygen machine after only two days, allowing him to breathe on his own. This provided the parents and all the specialists involved with hope. As baby Makheka turns 100 days, we celebrate his journey and his strength throughout the process. He is a true example of what being a fighter means.
Busamed Harrismith Private Hospital wishes, Baby Tlhonolofatso and the Makheka family, the best as we approach his discharge days.
“Thanks to all the doctors, nurses and the hospital staff for your loving and caring hospitality,” stated Mr and Mrs Makheka.
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