Swing for a Cause Rustenburg Rallies for Mieke Esterhuizen

Rustenburg – Seven-year-old Mieke Esterhuizen, a grade one learner at Laerskool Vastrap, has bravely faced multiple heart conditions that most children her age have never heard of. Mieke suffers from a combination of Tachy Brady Syndrome, Sick Sinus Syndrome, and Neuro-Cardiogenic Syncope, which all affect her heart in ways that are usually seen only in much older people. As the only child in South Africa with this combination of syndromes, her journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

On Thursday 3 October 2024, the Rustenburg Golf Club hosted a fundraising event, Swing for a Cause, to help raise funds for Mieke’s medical needs. The event drew an incredible 120 participants, all rallying to support her and her family. The overwhelming show of support brought hope and joy to the Esterhuizen family.

Bianca Esterhuizen, Mieke’s mother, shared, “It was wonderful to see so many people coming together for Mieke. It was so much fun.” Mieke herself added with a smile, “I had a lot of fun on the day. Thank you to everyone who supported me.”

Thanks to the generosity of those who attended, the Esterhuizen family was able to purchase an IGO2 portable oxygen machine for Mieke, complete with an extra battery. “We’re so grateful,” Bianca said. “We could even cover one trip’s airfare to Cape Town for Mieke’s treatment, and we also managed to buy a cylinder oxygen tank.”

The family continues to seek support for Mieke’s ongoing medical needs. If you’d like to help by donating, please contact Bianca at 071 362 7363.