Mother’s heartbreaking loss highlights need for brain aneurysm foundation in South Africa
MIDDELBURG – Mrs Bold South Africa finalist, Patricia Fortuin, is determined to raise awareness about a condition often referred to as a silent killer.
Patricia emphasised that brain aneurysm is as grave as HIV/AIDS and high blood pressure, yet its severity is not widely recognized in the country.
“There is currently no established foundation for brain aneurysm in South Africa,” she stated during an Open Day at Rockdale Community Health Centre in Middelburg on Thursday, September 19.
She said she initiated her advocacy for brain aaneurysm awareness with the primary aim of enlightening the public and ultimately safeguarding lives across South Africa following the tragic loss of her daughter to the condition in 2017, when she was just 22 years old.
She further explained that she chose to participate in Mrs Bold South Africa, a platform empowering women to redefine societal norms and expectations, in order to shed light on brain aneurysm.
“As a mother who endured the heartbreaking loss of her daughter to a brain aneurysm, I believe it is my duty. She suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm, leading us to make the painful decision to disconnect life support,” she added.
“At the time of the incident, I was oblivious to the signs and symptoms of this condition. I firmly believe that knowledge is paramount and empowering. By spreading awareness, we have the potential to save lives.”
A brain aneurysm is characterised by a weakened section in a blood vessel in the brain that swells and fills with blood. This can be perilous as the swollen area may rupture, resulting in bleeding in the brain.
Visualize a balloon with a weak spot that gradually expands as it fills with air. Should the balloon reach a critical size, it might burst, releasing all its contents.
A brain aneurysm operates in a similar manner, except that instead of air, it fills with blood in the vulnerable spot of the blood vessel.
A ruptured aneurysm can trigger a severe condition known as a hemorrhagic stroke. This condition is life-threatening and necessitates immediate medical intervention.
The indications of a brain aneurysm may include a sudden, intense headache, nausea, vomiting, drooping eyelid, light sensitivity, loss of consciousness, confusion, and alterations in vision or speech.
“I overlooked these signs and symptoms because I was unaware of what was afflicting my daughter. Had I possessed the knowledge, I might have been able to save her life,” she expressed.
September is designated as brain aneurysm awareness month. “I am utilizing this month to intensify efforts in raising awareness,”Patricia highlighted.
Moreover, she issued a heartfelt appeal to both the corporate sector and the medical community to extend their support to such crucial endeavors. “I welcome pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies, medical practitioners, and all those willing to contribute,” she added.
For additional information, Patricia can be followed on Instagram at patricia_fortuin or on Facebook as Patricia Fortuin Mrs Bold South Africa Finalist.
She can also be reached at 082 854 4875.
