At just 35 years old, Sibusiso Hlanganyane has already faced more than his fair share of health challenges, after heart failure and kidney disease left him needing dialysis and blood transfusions.
He was only 6 years old when doctors first identified a problem with his heart. His parents grew concerned when his face and legs became swollen. Sibusiso spent nearly three months in the hospital receiving treatment before being discharged.
For many years his condition seemed stable. He followed a special heart friendly diet and lived without any major complications, until late 2022.
In November of that year, what began as a normal weekend quickly took a serious turn. Sibusiso developed a fever and was struggling to breath. By Sunday he had not improved and consulted his doctor at Melomed Bellville. His doctor immediately recognised the severity of the situation and transferred him to a cardiologist at Melomed Tokai. There he was diagnosed with dangerously high blood pressure and heart failure. Sibusiso spent two weeks in hospital, where he was stabilised on medication for both his heart and blood pressure. He was discharged with strict instructions to have regular check-ups.
By April 2024 his health declined again. The swelling in his legs and face returned and he was once again transferred to Melomed Tokai. Further tests revealed kidney failure.
High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. Over time, it damages the blood vessels and filters in the kidney, making removal of waste from the body difficult. By the time Sibusiso was diagnosed, his kidneys were functioning at only 6%. He was immediately started on dialysis three times a week, with each session lasting at least four hours.
Chronic kidney disease, often leads to anaemia, which significantly affects quality of life. Anaemia occurs when damaged kidneys are unable to produce enough erythropoietin (EPO), the hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. As a result, the body produces fewer red blood cells leading to anaemia.
During 2024, Sibusiso received two blood transfusions to treat severe anaemia. Today he is doing much better. He can work a few hours a week when he is not undergoing dialysis, something that has given him a renewed sense of purpose to once again be contributing to his family.
His wife, Lindiwe Jumba- Hlanganyane, works as a donor attendant at the N1 City fixed site clinic, where she helps collect the very blood her husband has needed. She has witnessed firsthand the amazing generosity of voluntary donors and understands on a personal level the life-saving impact of each donation.
Because someone chose to donate blood, Sibusiso was able to receive the blood he needed and that act of generosity continues to give his family hope for tomorrow.
