Helping Lebogang: A brave young man, a rare disease, and a community that cares

At just 11 years old, Lebogang Moabi is facing a battle most of us can’t even imagine. Diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening condition called Fanconi Anaemia, Lebogang requires blood transfusions every two weeks just to stay alive. His illness has taken him out of school, away from everyday joys, and placed an enormous emotional and financial strain on his family.

Fanconi Anaemia is a devastating disorder that causes bone marrow failure and increases the risk of cancer. It also carries the weight of genetic inheritance—Lebogang’s older sister tragically passed away from the same condition at the age of eight. Now, his parents are doing all they can to hold onto their son, but they are overwhelmed. His father is unemployed and his mother earns a small income as a domestic worker. Each transfusion costs R1500, and while organisations like Rainbows and Smiles have stepped in where possible, the burden is simply too heavy to bear alone.

At HOT Cares, we believe that no family should have to choose between life-saving treatment and basic survival. So we’re stepping in to walk this journey with the Moabi family. Thanks to the generosity of our Hot 1027 listeners, we will be covering the cost of Lebogang’s blood transfusions for the next year—totalling R36,000.

This isn’t just about paying for medical bills. It’s about giving a brave little boy the chance to keep fighting. It’s about bringing hope and dignity to a family who’s already endured so much loss. And it’s about shining a light on children living with rare illnesses—because their stories matter.

To the Moabi family: you are not alone. And to every listener who contributes to Teddython—thank you. Your support is life-changing.

About Fanconi Anaemia:
Fanconi Anaemia (FA) is a rare and inherited blood disorder that primarily affects children. It leads to bone marrow failure, meaning the body cannot produce enough healthy blood cells—causing fatigue, easy bruising, bleeding, and a weakened immune system. FA is also associated with physical abnormalities, developmental delays, and a significantly increased risk of cancers such as leukemia and solid tumours. Symptoms often appear between the ages of 2 and 15, though severity and timing can vary.

While there is no universal cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, with regular blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants being the most effective interventions. Early diagnosis, careful monitoring, and supportive care can significantly improve quality of life and long-term outcomes for children living with this condition.

Sources:

• Fanconi Anemia Research Fund (www.fanconi.org)

• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Fanconi Anemia (rarediseases.org)

• Genetics Home Reference – U.S. National Library of Medicine (ghr.nlm.nih.gov)

• Mayo Clinic (www.mayoclinic.org)