Rushane was born as a healthy baby. When he was 11 years old, his mom, Felicity, attended his
soccer match and noticed that he was out of breath and he had no energy. On their way home
Rushane complained that his legs were heavy, and Felicity noticed his ankles and legs were swollen.
She phoned their paediatrician who advised her to take Rushane to Casualty at Mercantile Hospital.
Tests were done and Rushane was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus, an autoimmune disease in which
the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in
the affected organs. He was referred to Red Cross Hospital for treatment, where their journey with
Wings & Wishes started.
Over the next 4 years Wings & Wishes funded 36 flights for the family to
get to medical treatment. Felicity commented that, “without their help we would not be able to
afford airfares to get Rushane to his check-ups.”
Rushane recalls that his illness affected him badly and deprived him of many things teenagers love.
He had to stop playing soccer, his favourite sport and his diet had to change as he had to follow a
low sodium/salt diet, excluding any junk food!
Rushane adhered to all the doctor’s directives and with the support of his parents he learned to live
with his illness. After completing high school he enrolled for a Diploma in Economics at Nelson
Mandela University. Rushane graduated during the Autumn graduation in April and is currently
doing his internship.
Felicity is forever grateful to Wings & Wishes, “through the help from Wings & Wishes Rushane
received the best medical care from Professors and Doctors at Red Cross Hospital and is now in
remission!
