Xonja Racheal Van Tonder, a two-year-old from Krugersdorp with Down syndrome, urgently needs open-heart surgery to repair two serious heart defects, with her family seeking R400 000 for the life-saving procedure.
Image: Supplied
Xonja Racheal Van Tonder, a two-year-old toddler from Krugersdorp West born with Down syndrome, is in urgent need of open-heart surgery after being diagnosed with two serious heart defects that are placing dangerous strain on her body.
Xonja suffers from Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), conditions that were identified in her first months of life and now require immediate surgical intervention. Her family must raise R400 000 to cover the procedure and associated medical care.
At just two years and five months old, Xonja is described by her parents as a bright, loving child.
“She is one of the friendliest little girls - always smiling and full of life,” her parents shared. “She loves Tinkerbell, music, and trying to say new words. She even loves water so much, she would probably find it in the Sahara Desert.”
The toddler’s surgery has been postponed multiple times due to hospital delays, prompting her family to appeal to the public for help.
Image: Supplied
Despite her condition, her spirit remains strong.
“She loves making people smile and always wants the last say,” they added.
Doctors say Xonja’s heart defects are forcing her small heart to work far harder than it should, affecting her oxygen levels and overall development.
“Her oxygen levels drop dangerously low, especially while she sleeps. Sometimes her lips, hands and feet turn blue. She gets sick very easily and struggles to get proper rest,” her parents explained.
The condition has also limited her ability to live like other children her age.
“She often cannot be around other children, and she misses out on school activities and making friends because of how fragile her health is,” they said.
Specialists from Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, Rahima Moosa Hospital, and Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital have all assessed her condition. Tests confirmed that the holes in her heart are too large to close on their own and must be surgically repaired.
“This surgery is not optional - it is life-saving,” her parents said.
Xonja’s surgery has already been postponed multiple times. Initially scheduled for October 2025, it was pushed to January 2026 and delayed again due to unforeseen circumstances, including illness and the passing of a leading specialist.
“We have tried everything - calls, emails, follow-ups - but we have received no clear answers or support,” her parents shared.
Her condition has worsened during this period.
“We had to borrow an oxygen machine because her levels dropped as low as 34%. Even now, we struggle to keep them above safe levels,” they said.
Doctors have warned that further delays could have devastating consequences.
“If the surgery is delayed any longer, the holes could become inoperable,” her parents explained. “At that point, the only option may be a transplant - or worse.”
“She might not have a third birthday,” they added.
The estimated cost of treatment is approximately R400 000, covering open-heart surgery, ICU care, hospitalisation, medication, and post-surgery follow-ups.
“We never imagined we would be asking for help like this,” her parents said. “But when it comes to our daughter’s life, we will do anything.”
The family has launched a crowdfunding campaign, appealing to the public for support.
“We don’t know how to say thank you to everyone who has supported us,” her parents shared. “Even a like or a share makes a difference and brings her closer to a better life.”
“Seeing her struggle, while she thinks it’s normal, breaks our hearts every day.”
“If you can’t donate, please share her story. She deserves the chance to grow, to play, and to live.”
To support Xonja, visit: BackaBuddy Campaign