28/02/2026
Ｒａｒｅ． Ｂｒａｖｅ． Ｕｎｓｔｏｐｐａｂｌｅ．
Today, on World Rare Diseases Day, we honour a true example of resilience, courage and strength, Mrs Cindy Botha. Cindy’s journey began in 2022 when she was diagnosed with Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) a rare neurological condition that affects the peripheral nerves. Rare disease patients are often referred to as “zebras”, because while there are many horses, there are few zebras. Rare, but undeniably beautiful and strong. The zebra ribbon she wears represents that identity with pride.
Since her diagnosis, Cindy has endured more than 67 hospital admissions and episodes, many of which left her paralysed from the neck down. She faced the unimaginable, being unable to move, yet experiencing excruciating pain. As she explains, in the early stages of her condition, she could not understand how she could be completely paralysed, yet feel such extreme pain. Even the slightest movement was unbearable.
Discharge days were not always joyful. Often, she felt safer within the hospital walls. Home felt uncertain. Rehabilitation at home did not feel the same. The hospital became more than a place of treatment; it became a place of security, healing, and hope.
Yet today, Cindy is walking.
Through perseverance, specialised treatment, physiotherapy, and an unbreakable spirit, she has overcome what once seemed impossible. Her journey is not over; she still receives treatment every 21 days, staying four nights at a time, but she returns to a place that feels like home.
In her own words:
“Throughout the years, the staff and I have gone through a mutual learning experience. At times, I felt powerless, frustrated, and in pain, but they, being who they are, professional, dedicated, committed, and compassionate, were willing to grow and learn with me. We evolved, and today I get to call them my extended family. My friends. They changed my life, and I will forever be grateful. Family means everything, especially throughout this journey. My husband sacrificed so much, caring for me daily, standing by me every single day, supporting me physically and emotionally. When I could not stand on my own, he lifted me. When I felt overwhelmed, he carried us through. His strength became my strength. I am incredibly proud and deeply grateful for the support system that surrounds me (my family), the love, encouragement, and daily reassurance that remind me I am never fighting this battle alone.”
Cindy extends her heartfelt gratitude to every staff member who has walked this journey with her, the doctors, physiotherapists, care workers, registered and enrolled nurses, unit managers, and every individual who made an impact on her healing.
Today, we honour Cindy. We honour every rare disease patient. We honour every family fighting the good fight.
You may be rare - but you are powerful.
You may be few - but you are never alone.
