GEORGE NEWS - Nearly a year since both Danny Schoeman (18) and her mother Taflin (50), were diagnosed with cancer, the Schoeman family finally had reason for celebration.
In fact, it was a double celebration for Danny, who recently found out that she is in remission after being diagnosed with leukaemia in 2023, and could celebrate her 18th birthday.
Danny turned 18 on 27 June but was unable to enjoy a proper birthday party due to her illness. Instead, she was blessed with a Bridgerton-themed one on Saturday 13 July.
Taflin has been fighting stage two breast cancer since October last year. She and her family moved from Bloemfontein to George four years ago.
In August 2023, Danny went to the doctor with a sore throat and was treated for a bacterial throat infection. A few days later, however, she experienced a sharp pain in her left side and her father Dirk took her to casualties.
That same day, Taflin was at another doctor making arrangements to have a small tumour in her breast removed. While she was arranging her surgery, Dirk phoned her about Danny's diagnosis and they had to tell their daughter that she had acute myeloid leukaemia.
Immediate arrangements were made to take Danny to Netcare Kuils River for treatment. Dirk and Taflin travelled back and forth from George to Kuils River throughout Danny's five-month treatment, never leaving her side.
Through the challenges and uncertainty, Danny and Taflin find it very special to be going through this together.
Starting on 29 August, Danny received 24-hour chemotherapy for seven days, and she had to stay in hospital for another three weeks afterwards. "Because the chemotherapy weakened her immune system so much, she had to be in isolation behind glass the whole time," says Taflin.
Danny with a cosy blanket she got at her birthday party.
Everything had to be sterilised and not even opening a window was allowed. She was only allowed to move between the bedroom and the bathroom. Danny contracted severe jaundice, sepsis and bacterial blood infection and nearly died. On 24 September, the day of Taflin's 50th birthday, Danny was finally discharged, and a week later her mother was operated on.
Taflin has completed her chemotherapy, radiation and her mastectomy. She will still be receiving a drip (Herceptin) every three weeks until the end of the year.
"We are overwhelmed by all the support we have received from the George community! We cannot thank you enough! God bless," says Taflin.
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