Heroine symbolises strength and hope after home inferno
A RAY of hope and sunshine is a suitable description of little superhero, 6-year-old Resego Lekgema, who survived a blazing house fire at her family home in Delareyville, Atamelang, in the North West six months ago.
Resego was critically injured, leaving half her body burnt, and she remained in hospital for more than six months after October in a specialised paediatric intensive care unit at Netcare Waterfall City Hospital.
Resego gradually made progress following treatment by an experienced medical team, consisting of expert paediatricians and a caring nursing staff, including high-grade medical machinery.
According to paediatrician Dr Palesa Monyake, Resego had burns covering close to 60% of her body and 10% inhalation burns inside her lungs, hence she was placed on an oscillator machine to support her breathing.
She also survived sepsis and multiorgan failure, which is quite common with severe burns.
Resego’s road to recovery pointed to a glimpse of hope as she was then transferred to Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital in Auckland Park as part of the next stage of treatment.
A doubtful, irritable and timid Resego is what the hospital’s medical cohort encountered, but their perseverance bore fruit when the youngster opened up and became a cheerful chatterbox.
Professor Andre Mochan, a neurologist, explained that the second stage to recovery entailed Resego undergoing therapy and physiotherapy for mobility, after being confined to a bed for a long stretch of time.
“We needed to help her rebuild her muscles and regain her functioning. The burn scars on her face, limbs and trunk also needed to be carefully managed. As scars heal, they contract, which makes movement difficult and can potentially be disfiguring if not appropriately addressed,” he said.
Occupational therapist Jessica Erasmus said: “Resego’s been doing physiotherapy to build her muscles and help keep the scar tissue supple to maximise her range of movement.
“Scarring only matures after two years, and so we have a window of opportunity to make the most of the various therapies, including scar massage and pressure garments to promote healing and reorganisation of fibres in the scars, keeping them flat and smooth.”
Erasmus said although Resego is showing a progressive recovery, over time she may require surgeries to release the tight scar tissue as she grows.
Resego’s mother, Rebaone Lekgema, thanked her daughter’s medical team as they created a strong supportive system for her daughter and their family.
“We, Resego’s parents, would like to thank you all for saving Resego’s life. From the positivity and honesty you showed, you made us stronger than we were.
“Resego’s situation showed us that life is a roller-coaster. Through our prayers, your dedication and sleepless nights, we thank you, and may God bless you more to keep on serving and saving our people. We love you,” said Lekgema.