Sivalingum Pillay.
Image: Supplied
A Phoenix grandfather battling a rare blood disorder found a matching stem cell donor overseas, but his medical aid will not cover the necessary transportation expenses.
Sivalingum Pillay, 59, has since started a Back-a-Buddy page to raise R711,000.
“By a miracle, we have been blessed to find a matching stem cell donor overseas. But we now face another heartbreaking obstacle. My medical aid will not cover the cost of transporting the stem cells to South Africa."
Pillay, who was medically boarded, said he underwent quadruple bypass surgery in 2020 and has since received ongoing treatment for his heart condition.
He worked as a clerk in the X-Ray department at Addington Hospital for over 26 years.
“During this difficult time, I suffered severe blood loss and required eight pints of blood transfusions, as well as an iron transfusion, leaving me weak and unable to return to work for long periods.”
The father of two said after countless hospital visits, misdiagnoses, and being sent home without answers, a biopsy finally led him to a hematologist.
“That was when we received the devastating diagnosis that I have a rare blood disorder called myelofibrosis. Since then, I have undergone extremely intensive treatment, including weekly injections, regular blood transfusions and chemotherapy.
“However, the treatments are no longer working the way I had hoped. My condition is worsening, and doctors have told me that our only hope is a stem cell transplant. Now that a match has been found, it has given me and my family hope,” he said.
The grandfather of two added that becoming a stem cell donor could save a life.
“Many people suffering from blood cancer and rare diseases like mine, depend entirely on finding a matching donor to survive. Sadly, many patients never find that match. Registering as a stem cell donor is a simple process. I call on the public to please consider becoming donors and to support those who are fighting these battles. Your decision could one day save a father, mother, child, or someone’s loved one. You have the power to give someone a second chance at life.”
Pillay thanked everyone who had supported him and his family during his “incredibly difficult” journey.
“The kindness, prayers, and generosity gives me hope that I may still have a chance to continue this life with the people I love,” he said.
To assist, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/hope-for-my-dad-starts-with-you