Mr Migz - A Maboneng Warrior from Zim

Little Miguel was diagnosed with Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) and Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF) in April 2021. He was seven months old when he was diagnosed while at a regular check up with this paediatrician. “It came as a shock to me and my husband because he was growing well and eating well,” shares Miguel’s Mom, Belina.

"Mr Migz" as he is affectionately known by his family in CTICU after his open heart surgery

After finding out about their baby boy’s heart defects, the Mushayi family started seeing a specialist who “was shocked to see our baby doing so well with his heart condition. They said that usually babies with CHDs turn blue or have trouble feeding, but Miguel didn’t have any signs”.

The Mushayi’s specialist advised that Miguel go for surgery soon after his first birthday. His open heart surgery was scheduled for the 26th of November and Miguel and his family flew from their home country, Zimbabwe, to South Africa on the 23rd of November.

“Miguel’s surgery was scheduled for Friday the 26th of November… the night we landed in SA Miguel started coughing badly.” The following day, Miguel was taken in for an echocardiogram and ecg in preparation for his surgery at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital, which is when paediatric cardiologist, Dr Jeff Harrisberg noticed his cough. “They did some blood tests and confirmed that Miguel had influenza,” says Belina, “we received medication for him and his surgery was delayed until the 9th of December.”

The Mushayi family waited in South Africa for the two week delay and on the 8th of December, their baby boy was admitted for surgery.

“It was my first time leaving him and it was in the hospital,” shares Belina, “I was nervous.” On the 9th of December at 8.32am, Miguel went in for his surgery.

“God was with him and God was with me. The surgery was successful, glory be to God,” reflects Belina. Miguel spent 5 days in recovery in the CTICU at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital.

“God healed him in an amazing way. Our warrior - brave little heart - our soldier. We call him Mr Migz. Migz is now gaining weight and is hyperactive. We’re so happy he’s doing so well. Thank you so much for taking care of our little one. We are forever grateful.”

All pictures shared with permission.