When Every Breath is a Battle: Potchefstroom Mother’s Courageous Fight Against Rare Disease

Charlene Bekker
May 13
2 min read

In the heart of the North West, Potchefstroom has long been defined by more than just its history and oak trees; it is defined by a spirit of "Stroom Cares."

This community-driven ethos, championed by local platforms like The Go-To Guy and various neighborhood networks, has a powerful history of stepping up when one of its own is in need. Today, that call for compassion is louder than ever as we share the story of Shané Swanepoel.

A Mother’s Fight Against an Invisible Enemy

Shané’s life changed forever at the age of 16 when she was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis (MG). Often called the "snowflake disease" because it affects every patient differently, MG is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the connection between nerves and muscles.

For years, Shané managed her condition with resilience, but since December 2025, her battle has taken a harrowing turn. What was once manageable has become a daily fight for survival. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to repeated ICU admissions, collapsed lungs, and the terrifying necessity of ventilator support.

The Weight of a Rare Disease

For Shané, the simplest joys of motherhood,walking with her two daughters (aged 4 and 8), eating a meal with her husband, or even taking a deep breath,have become grueling tasks.

To stay alive and fight for a return to health, she requires:

Ongoing Plasma Exchanges: A critical but expensive procedure to remove harmful antibodies from her blood.

Specialized Medication: Chronic treatments that are essential for muscle function.

Trialing New Treatment Plans: Constant medical supervision as doctors search for the right "cocktail" of care to stabilize her.

Despite having medical aid, the reality of rare diseases in South Africa is that many life-saving treatments and extended ICU stays are not fully covered. The mounting financial burden has placed an immense strain on a family already dealing with the emotional toll of a mother in crisis.

How Potchefstroom Can Help

The "Stroom Cares" movement is built on the idea that "no contribution is too small." Whether it is a financial donation to help cover the gap in medical costs or the power of prayer, every gesture brings Shané one step closer to being the mother her girls so desperately need.

How you can support Shané Swanepoel:

Donate: Every Rand helps cover the costs of plasma exchanges and specialist care that medical aid refuses.
Share Her Story: Use your voice on social media. One share could reach someone who can offer the specific help the family needs.
Pray: The family holds onto hope and asks the community for continued prayers for strength and healing.

Shané remains determined. She is fighting not just for her health, but for the chance to watch her daughters grow up. Let’s show her that in Potchefstroom, no one fights alone.

Follow the journey and find out how to help here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/shane-swanepoel