Thato, the first Little Hero
Aug. 28, 2019
Two-year-old Thato from Katlehong was the first beneficiary of the Little Heroes initiative. Thato was diagnosed with a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) a condition that affects the blood vessel connecting the aorta with the pulmonary artery. Head of Cardiology at NMCH, professor Hopewell Ntsinjana explains: “This channel is important prior to birth to allow oxygen-rich blood from the mother to circulate to the fetus’s body. Normally the vessel closes shortly after birth. If it does not close, oxygen-rich blood can mix with oxygen-poor blood, placing strain on the heart.”
Thato’s mother, Queen Mabuyangwa, is relieved that Thato has undergone the procedure. “Thato would have fevers and shortness of breath. Her heart would pump so hard I could feel it. Now I don’t have to worry about her heart giving her problems anymore, she will live a normal life.” Queen says.
CEO of NMCH, Dr Mandisa Maholwana talks very positively about this partnership: “Our hospital has made a concerted effort to highlight cardiac defects in children this past month. We’ve collaborated with various partners to support our patients and raise further awareness around these conditions. We are proud to be associated with Abbott’s Little Heroes initiative and for the lives that have already been changed for the better as part of this initiative.”
Two-year-old Thato, the first beneficiary of NMCH’s partnership with Abbott’s Little Heroes campaign, was diagnosed with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) a condition that affects the blood vessel connecting the aorta with the pulmonary artery.
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