EASTERN Cape Health MEC, Nomakhosazana Meth, has expressed shock at the sudden passing of two-month-old Anothando Mtshobi, from Ngavungavu location in Libode, who was born with suspected progeria, a rare genetic condition that causes one’s skin to age rapidly.
The child passed away at the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha on September 23.
Meth had earlier visited Anothando in hospital and given her clothes and toiletries, on September 3, after her facial photos were circulated on social media platforms.
“I am deeply saddened by the death of this young girl. The death of a child is unnatural, unfair, and tragic, and I would like to offer my sincere and deep condolences to the family. We feel the pain they are going through,” said Meth.
Test results had not yet come back to confirm whether baby Anothando was born with progeria.
Meth said the child passed away due to other medical problems that she was treated for at the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital.
“Genetic studies of progeria are still pending; however, other investigations done confirmed that the child had other underlying congenital infections that led to her complications,” Meth said.
Petrus Majola, the founder of Khula Community Development Services, a non-governmental organisation championing children’s and women’s rights, who has been given permission to speak on behalf of the bereaved family, confirmed that baby Anothando’s funeral service would be held today, September 30.
“Cape Town-based pastor, Anele Heli, visited the family on September 8 after he also saw photos of the late child on social media and had promised to assist by building the family a house. Upon hearing the news of the child’s passing, the pastor has committed himself to cover funeral expenses for baby Anothando,” Majola said.
