A Christmas gift of confidence for brave young Mia

At just 12 years old, Mia has faced more challenges than most children her age. Born with a rare eye condition that caused her eyelashes to grow inward, Mia has undergone several surgeries over the years – but none could fully correct the issue. Today, she has no vision in her left eye, and her appearance has affected her confidence, especially as she prepares to start high school next year.

Despite everything, Mia remains strong. She excels academically, participates in sport – especially hockey – and is described by her grandmother Erica as a “pure child of God” with a heart of gold. But like many children her age, Mia is beginning to feel the emotional weight of standing out physically, and she dreams of looking “normal” and fitting in.

Mia needs a cosmetic eye shell to restore symmetry and confidence, but her mother’s medical aid doesn’t cover it. Her father, recently diagnosed with a serious kidney issue, contributes where he can. On top of that, Mia needs dental work – including scans, possible extractions, and braces – to correct misaligned canine teeth that are growing over others. These combined medical costs could exceed R80,000, a figure far beyond the family’s means.

Mia needs a cosmetic eye shell to restore symmetry and confidence, but her mother’s medical aid doesn’t cover it. Her father, recently diagnosed with a serious kidney issue, contributes where he can. On top of that, Mia needs dental work – including scans, possible extractions, and braces – to correct misaligned canine teeth that are growing over others. These combined medical costs could exceed R80,000, a figure far beyond the family’s means.

That’s where Hot Cares stepped in.

This Christmas, thanks to the generosity of our listeners, Hot Cares is covering the full cost of Mia’s eye and dental procedures – up to R80,000.

We’re also gifting Mia a special sports gear voucher so she can continue shining on the hockey field. And because siblings matter too, we’ve included a voucher for her brother.

Mia, your courage inspires us. We hope this gift helps you walk confidently into high school, knowing just how remarkable you are.

Watch the moment as it happened on air: