GEORGE NEWS - Nurses and doctors of the neonatal unit at George Hospital celebrated the second birthday of a very special boy, Daniel, at the Deacon Bistro in January.
Daniel was surrounded by everybody who adores and loves him. He has been the heart of the neonatal unit for two years.
Daniel's condition has been severe and critical from birth. During the pandemic, he was seen as a beacon of hope.
"He has been the quiet rock of hope to both the nursing and medical staff during the pandemic," said Dr Els-Goussard, a specialist in the neonatal unit.
Daniel has been diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis, which forms part of the congenital neurocutaneous syndrome. It is a very rare condition and only found in one in every 10 000 births.
According to Els-Goussard, there is a big mass lesion filling up half of his brain and also lesions in his heart muscle. This resulted in hemiparesis, which prohibits Daniel from using his right arm and leg.
Other side effects include blindness in the left side of his eye and developmental delay.
Most reports on him from medical doctors had a poor outcome, but the doctors and nurses in the neonatal unit never gave up on him and always had a positive outlook on his condition.
"When times are tough in the neonatal unit and we are all under pressure, a hug from Daniel helps us all cope," said one of Daniel's caretakers and NICU nurse in the unit. He is described by many in this unit as happy, loving, a little charmer and a miracle.
As he grew, he stole the hearts of many and soon became the centre of attention among George Hospital staff and health professionals.
After two years of being in the care of doctors and nurses in the neonatal unit at George Hospital, Daniel is awaiting placement at a children's home.
"Daniel will leave, but a part of him will stay with us. He made us think differently about life. We know that he will continue his journey in other places where he will continue his life journey to improve the world and make it a better place," said Els-Goussard.
Daniel will always be remembered by the neonatal unit and the rest of George Hospital as their "little fighter".
Despite his circumstances and daily challenges, he is always happy and always makes cloudy days a little brighter for the people around him.
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