Members of the Primary Immunodeficiency Network of South Africa (Pinsa) in the Free State gathered at IniBos Restaurant in Bloemfontein on 28 October.
This was a meet-and-greet of families with the condition and showed and support for primary immunodeficiency (PID) patients and their families.
Dr. Chantelle van der Bijl, a Pinsa board member and mother to a PID patient, explains that primary immunodeficiency is a condition where a person’s immune system, which is like their body’s defense system against germs and illnesses, does not work as well as it should.
“This means that they are more likely to get sick, because their immune system struggles to fight off infections and diseases effectively.
“People with primary immunodeficiency might need special treatments to strengthen their immune system to help them stay healthy. It’s important for them to be aware of their condition and work closely with healthcare professionals to manage it and lead as healthy a life as possible.”
The gathering saw the participation of three PID patients and their families, with two of them being young girls, aged six and seven, who had the opportunity to meet someone their age with the condition. Attendees also had the opportunity to interact with an adult who shares the same condition, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
The highlight of the event was a cookie decorating class led by Carin Bornman of Carin’s Cookie Decorations. It was a delightful and educational experience as participants shared stories and advice while decorating cookies.
Van der Bijl started the Free State branch of Pinsa, hoping to provide a pillar of support for PID patients and their families. She said that the gathering was a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting each other through life’s challenges.
