Hope, Healing and a lot of Gratitude

In the world of medical miracles and stories of bravery, Tanya Bothma's story shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her journey, marked as the first-ever successful double lung transplant at Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) - not only a first for the hospital but also for the Western Cape Province - and the first such recipient of such a complex procedure in a public sector facility in the whole of Africa. She proves that organ donation is a very important cause and reminds us of the urgent need for more people to become organ donors.

Her journey began years ago when she was diagnosed with Bronchiolitis Obliterans. This disease made it super tough for her to breathe.

Living in such a way is a never-ending fight just to stay alive. For Tanya, even the simplest things like walking, talking, or sharing a laugh with loved ones became very hard. But through it all, Tanya kept her head high and her attitude grateful and positive.

On the 11th of December 2017, Tanya got the life-saving gift she desperately needed - a pair of healthy lungs from a selfless organ donor. The surgery was a huge deal because it was the first done in a State hospital in Africa. Tanya's recovery was tough, but her determination and the support of her loved ones helped her keep going.

Tanya Bothma's story shows just how incredible organ donation can be. While Tanya's journey is nothing short of amazing, it's also a reminder that we need more organ donors worldwide.

Millions of people all over the world are waiting for a second chance at life. They're hoping for a new heart, kidney, liver or tissue. Sadly, many of them won't get that chance because there aren't enough organ donors.

So, what can we do to make a difference? It's simple: we need to spread the word about organ donation. Each of us has the power to be a hero by deciding to be an organ donor and talking about it with our loved ones.

Together, we can make sure more stories like Tanya's are told, giving hope, healing, and a second chance at life to those who need it.

If you would like to donate directly to the Heart and Lung Transplant Unit using her reference of "A New Breath" - this will ensure that these funds are specifically used for the Patient Fund.

Even a small amount goes a long way to assist someone in realising their dream of a successful heart or lung transplant.

Account Details:

Heart and Lung Transplant Patient

Account Nedbank Current Account F

Account Number: 1048042642

Branch Code: 198765

Swift Code: NEDSZAJJ

Payment Reference: A New Breath

For any further information, please contact the Heart and Lung Transplant Unit at Groote Schuur Hospital directly.