Great show of support for Akilah

GRAAFF-REIENT NEWS - A fabulous show was held at the John Rupert Theatre on Friday 5 July to cover Akilah Jackson’s medical and school funds in Gqeberha.

Akilah, who suffers from Sturge-Weber Syndrome, also gave a stunning performance at the show that featured artists like Archie Pienaar on keyboard and piano, Colin Pietersen on acoustic guitar, soloists Akilah, Elisteen Sparks and Solita Vicks, dancers Lionisha, ALazne and Leona and poetry by Daantjie Japhta.

Challenges

Cora Bekker, a psychiatric social worker, said that it is important to give background regarding Akilah, a child whose wellbeing necessitates attention and collaborative support.

Bekker became acquainted with Akilah following her admission to Akeso Psychiatric Hospital due to a series of epileptic seizures in March this year.

Akilah was carried full-term and was born via caesarean section, but at the age of 18 months, she experienced her first seizure and was diagnosed with Sturge-Weber Syndrome. Her seizures, lasting between 5 to 10 minutes cause severe migraines and subsequent need for rest.

Akilah’s academic journey has been fraught with challenges, including multiple seizures at school that led to her failing Grade 7 at Thembalesizwe Primary in 2023.

Dreaming big

On a positive note, Akilah maintains a robust social life. She harbours aspirations of becoming an Instagram model and a lawyer, participating in modelling activities at church and school.

A structured programme, implemented by her grandmother, provides her with daily stability while her mother works.

Akilah has shown remarkable resilience and interpersonal skills during her time in the hospital.

Despite experiencing considerable physical pain due to her condition, she has maintained a positive demeanour and has engaged well with other children in Akeso Hospital in Gqeberha.

Akilah Jackson