Young Hayden’s recovery at St Joseph’s is a healing miracle

What began as a battle for survival has turned into a story of hope and healing for seven-year-old Hayden, whose recovery at St Joseph’s Intermediate Paediatric Care has touched the hearts of staff and caregivers.

When Hayden was admitted to the facility in March this year, his condition was critical. Suffering from tuberculous meningitis, he was unable to walk, severely malnourished, and in constant pain. He could hardly bear to be touched and was unable to swallow, relying entirely on a nasogastric tube for nutrition. His prognosis was uncertain.

According to St Joseph’s representative Daniel Roodt, the first months of Hayden’s recovery were slow and challenging. He underwent six months of intensive TB treatment while his care team focused on comfort, nutrition, and gentle stimulation. Despite minimal progress at the beginning, they remained patient and committed.

Then, gradually, things began to change.

Hayden’s appetite returned, and after completing his TB treatment, he was able to eat fully by mouth. This marked a turning point in his recovery. Today, the little boy who once lay fragile and fearful now walks with assistance, eats heartily, laughs freely, and fills the ward with song.

His progress in physiotherapy has been extraordinary. Once distressed by touch, Hayden now greets therapists with smiles and hugs. His strength, balance, and confidence have improved significantly, and he no longer needs chronic pain medication.

In occupational therapy, he has reached important milestones. He can sit without support, feed himself using a built-up spoon, dress with assistance, and use both hands to grasp and explore. His visual perception has improved, and he has even begun attending St Joseph’s school – a meaningful step toward independence.

The nursing team speaks of his transformation with pride.

“From a child who once pushed us away, Hayden now calls us by name. He loves getting ready for school each morning, singing and chatting to everyone in the ward,” one nurse said.

Hayden himself beams when he talks about his favourite things: “Ek het lekker kossies gehad, my beste is hot chips en vis. Ek het skool toe gegaan, dit is baie lekker,” he said.

Hayden’s recovery is one of many healing stories at St Joseph’s, a 175-bed facility that provides free, transitional care to vulnerable children across the Western Cape. Each year, hundreds of children with complex medical needs receive life-changing treatment there, made possible through the dedication of staff and the generosity of donors.

For Hayden, that generosity has meant a second chance at childhood.

Hayden's surname has been withheld to protect his identity.