April 10, 2024

The narrative concerning Michelle Saayman

My mother, Michelle Saayman, received a devastating diagnosis of kidney cancer at the age of 50. Prior to this, I had never encountered anyone with kidney cancer or even considered the possibility of cancer affecting my family.
We often joked about my mother's exemplary health habits. She maintained a balanced diet, stayed physically active, and prioritized regular health check-ups. To me, she epitomized optimal health.
However, on Friday, October 1, 2021, my perception of my mother's health drastically shifted when my father delivered the shocking news over the phone: "Danielle, mom has been diagnosed with kidney cancer." I was left speechless and bewildered. It felt surreal, as if it must have been a mistake. But unfortunately, it was our new reality.
In August 2021, my mother began experiencing back pain, initially attributing it to her regular household activities. However, the pain intensified to the point where she struggled to walk. Despite visiting the doctor and receiving pain medication, her condition worsened. She started losing weight and exhibited symptoms associated with kidney stones, including blood in her urine and occasional fevers.
On Saturday, September 25, she revisited the doctor, who suspected kidney stones and arranged for a CT scan. The results revealed a mass on her left kidney, leading to a referral to an oncologist at Cancer Care in Gqeberha.
The doctor's news that Friday morning was devastating. My mother likened hearing the words "you have cancer" to being drenched with ice-cold water. Not only was she diagnosed with metastatic left kidney cancer, but it had already spread to her spine, causing severe erosion of T2, necessitating emergency surgery before initiating any treatment.
Following surgical stabilization, the focus shifted to commencing treatment promptly. A ray of hope emerged when she was selected to participate in trials conducted by an American pharmaceutical company targeting her type of kidney cancer. Participating in this trial would have provided her with top-notch care and covered all medical expenses.
Despite undergoing two months of hospital visits for blood transfusions in hopes of raising her iron levels, she was ultimately deemed ineligible for the trial. The doctors believed they had exhausted all options to boost her iron levels. Subsequently, she was prescribed a chemotherapy pill, which she dreaded due to its anticipated side effects.
I'll never forget the evening she held that pill in her hand, trembling with fear of the side effects she would endure. Despite her apprehension, she took it, promising us that she would fight with all her might.
Each person's experience with chemotherapy varies, and we were familiar with its effects on cancer patients. However, when my mother began taking that chemo pill, we entered uncharted territory, and everything changed drastically.
The side effects took a toll on her, causing nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, and skin reactions. Helplessly, we watched her body weaken day by day. The robust mother I once knew became frail, unable to walk unassisted due to the pill's sensitivity to the soles of her feet.
Witnessing her suffering left me feeling utterly helpless. There were days when all I wanted to do was hold her, but her pain prevented even the gentlest touch.
We clung to hope in that chemo pill; my mother clung to it even tighter. We prayed fervently that it would shrink the tumor as promised, enabling the removal of her kidney. However, our hopes dwindled when the cancer spread to her liver, accelerating at an uncontrollable pace.
The tumor on her left kidney remained unaffected by the treatment, quickly spreading to her lower back and up her spine into her brain. With stage four cancer, the doctors could offer no further interventions. The inevitable conclusion drew near. Despite the harsh reality, my mother found solace in accepting the outcome and chose to cease treatment. Her body was exhausted, wracked with pain.
Nothing could have prepared us for those final days; it was heart-wrenching. Initially, she responded to our expressions of love, but eventually, even that connection faded. As I stood by her bedside, I refused to accept the reality unfolding before me, clinging to hope for a miraculous change until the end.
My mother's cancer journey concluded on September 18, 2022, at the age of 51, a grueling battle spanning just 11 months. I hesitate to say she "lost" her battle to cancer, as it implies she didn't fight. She fought with every ounce of strength she possessed.
She still harbored dreams for her future. When asked by a counselor at Cancer Care what she would ask of God, she simply replied, "I want to grow old enough to witness my children's weddings."
Though I shared only 23 years of my life with her, she imparted everything I needed to succeed and remains the greatest human being I've ever known. Losing a mother at a young age is profoundly challenging, but I strive to honor her memory by making the most of the time I have.
There was only one Michelle Saayman, and her absence is deeply felt.
I dedicate this tribute to my remarkable mother, those we've lost to this merciless disease, and all those currently battling cancer.
As March draws attention to kidney health, Dr. Chevon Clark, CEO of National Renal Care (NRC), utilized World Kidney Day to underscore the significance of kidney health maintenance.
The kidneys play a pivotal role in our bodies, acting as filters to eliminate toxins, regulate fluid balance, and maintain acid-base equilibrium. Without this vital function, severe health repercussions may ensue.
Risk factors such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, smoking, alcohol and drug abuse, trauma, infections, and certain cancers can predispose individuals to kidney disease.
Dr. Clark emphasized the importance of regular screenings, knowledge about kidney health, and proactive involvement in one's health journey for optimal kidney health.
"In South Africa, high blood pressure is the leading cause of kidney disease, contributing to 60 to 65 percent of cases. Individuals with hypertension, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease face heightened risks and must remain vigilant," stated Dr. Clark, noting the increasing prevalence of kidney disease in South Africa. "Familiarize yourself with your risk factors to manage them effectively, and ensure regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to maintain healthy blood pressure levels and minimize kidney damage."
"National Renal Care stands at the forefront of the battle against kidney disease, advocating for early detection, proactive management, and patient empowerment," Dr. Clark affirmed.
"Let us join forces to raise awareness, promote kidney health, and enhance the quality of life for kidney patients," Dr. Clark concluded.