You never know...
I was born on 29 November 2004 at St Dominic’s Life Hospital. I am the middle child in a family of three, with an older sister and a younger brother. Just weeks after my birth, in December 2004, I was diagnosed with Complex Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD). My parents were told that I might not live beyond the age of three.
Those early years were spent mostly in hospital. Birthdays and Christmases became days shared with doctors and nurses rather than family celebrations. Hospital wards became familiar spaces, and procedures became routine. That was my normal.
From my earliest days, life was measured in heartbeats, hospital visits, and quiet resilience. Even then, my story was being written through courage rather than comfort.
Growing Up With CHD
My journey through childhood was different from most. I started school later than my peers and quickly learned that my body had limits others could not see. Physical activities were challenging, but swimming gave me freedom. When my teachers understood my condition, they showed kindness and support I will always appreciate.
Not every experience was easy. In Grade 7, exhaustion once overcame me after climbing stairs to class, and I was misunderstood. That moment revealed how invisible illness can be—and how important awareness truly is.
Between 2005 and 2020, hospital visits became part of life. After multiple palliative procedures, doctors confirmed at 16 that my heart could no longer cope and that I would need a transplant. Though the road ahead is demanding, it also brings hope.
I dream of living fully, inspiring other heart warriors, and seeing a future where families facing CHD receive care, dignity, and support together.
A Miracle We Never Expected
An Update from Unakho's Mom
On 2 November 2022, life shifted again when Unakho collapsed at school and was admitted to hospital with an arrhythmia. After stabilisation and transfer to Groote Schuur Hospital, we believed the immediate crisis had passed. Then, early on 14 November, I was called to the ward. Through fear and disbelief came the words that changed everything: they had found a heart for my child.
What followed was a blur of gratitude, consent forms, and quiet courage. When asked if she was afraid, Unakho answered simply, “No.” After a long and difficult surgery—and further complications that required unwavering trust in the medical team—her new heart began to work. Recovery continues through physiotherapy, monitoring, and hope. Though her 18th birthday was spent in hospital, it was surrounded by love. Our story is a testament to medical excellence, perseverance, and the time that care creates—to live, to hope, and to witness miracles.
Nonnie Ntshintshi
