Hot Cares helps miracle baby Zach take his next steps


At just a year old, Zach has already endured more than most do in a lifetime. In July 2024, his tiny body was placed on ECMO—a life-support machine—after a collapsed lung and severe complications left him with “catastrophic” brain damage. He spent his first birthday in an induced coma, breathing through a tracheostomy and receiving nourishment via a feeding tube.

Against all odds, Zach survived.

Now, less than a year later, he’s walking and starting to babble—showing the world just how strong and determined he is. But his journey of healing is far from over.

Zach needs a corrective brace to support his legs as he learns to walk, a device that costs R19,000 and must be worn for up to three years. He also needs to see a paediatric neurologist—an appointment Kelly, his mother, simply can’t afford following the death of her husband in January and the many unpaid medical bills that remain.

Hot Cares knew we had to help.

Thanks to our generous listeners, we’re covering the full cost of Zach’s corrective brace and the neurologist consultation. But we’re not stopping there. To support his therapy at home, we’re also donating a set of physical therapy tools—including physio balls, push toys, and foam climbing blocks—to help strengthen his muscles and coordination.

This R30,000 contribution is about more than medical bills. It’s about giving Zach the chance to keep defying the odds—and giving Kelly the support she so desperately deserves.

Together, we’re helping this miracle boy walk confidently into his future.

From love to light: Hot Cares powers up Barkston Place

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\\\\\\\’s Journey of Development

Silverstar and Hot Cares fund critical sterilisation campaign

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\\\\\\\’s Journey of Development

Every baby deserves a chance — how Hot Cares is helping Impilo make that happen

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\’s Journey of Development

Silverstar and Hot Cares step in to support WMACA this winter

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\’s Journey of Development

Hope behind the wall: why baby savers matter more than ever this Child Protection Week

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\’s Journey of Development

Hot Cares backs Teddy Bear Foundation’s vital work this Child Protection Week

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\’s Journey of Development

Silverstar donation helps Cross Connect build brighter futures

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\’s Journey of Development

Leaving footprints of love: helping children heal with dignity

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun\\’s Journey of Development

Hot Cares and Silverstar back a brave businesswoman’s New Beginning

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun’s Journey of Development

Hot Cares helps little Isabel take her first look at the world

Hot Cares Steps In to Support Sun Sun’s Journey of Development