Photo: supplied
In a display of community solidarity, Lenasia and surrounding areas residents gathered on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Gandhi Hall to support 13-year-old Shakil Pillay of Lenasia South . "Entertainers for a Purpose" organized "A Beating Heart," a fundraising event dedicated to raising funds for Shakil's urgent medical treatment. Shakil is battling a rare congenital heart defect, and while the event garnered significant support, a substantial financial gap remains to secure the necessary surgery abroad.
Event Highlights and Fundraising Efforts:
The "A Beating Heart" event featured performances by local artists and was supported by donations and sponsorships from community members and businesses. Despite a slightly lower turnout than anticipated, possibly due to inclement weather, the event successfully raised R57,659. Combined with previous donations, the total currently stands at R248,555. However, the family still needs to raise R7 million to cover the full cost of Shakil's surgery.
Shakil's Condition: A Race Against Time:
Shakil was born with Tetralogy of Fallot, a complex and critical heart condition involving multiple congenital defects, including severely underdeveloped pulmonary arteries and Major Aortopulmonary Collateral Arteries (MAPCA). This condition severely restricts blood flow and oxygenation, making immediate surgical intervention essential. The complexity of Shakil’s case is compounded by the underdevelopment of his pulmonary arteries, which significantly impairs his heart function.
The Urgent Need for International Medical Intervention:
To save Shakil’s life, the family urgently needs R7.25 million (approximately $400,000 USD) for a specialized surgery at Boston Children’s Hospital in the United States. South African medical facilities have exhausted all available treatment options, making international expertise Shakil’s only hope for survival.
Shakil's Journey: A Story of Resilience:
Born on February 20, 2012, Shakil is known for his resilience and kind nature. He enjoys playing PlayStation and spending time with his family. His diagnosis came as a complete shock, as no abnormalities were detected during prenatal screenings. Since then, Shakil has undergone four open-heart surgeries (in 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2018) to repair and stabilize his heart. Despite these efforts, his pulmonary arteries remain underdeveloped, and his heart continues to struggle to maintain adequate blood flow.
Family's Determination and Hope:
Bruce Pillay, Shakil’s father, shared that specialists have indicated Shakil may eventually need a heart and double lung transplant. However, due to the low rate of organ donation in South Africa, this option is not viable. The family remains steadfast in their determination to cherish every moment with Shakil and fight for his future.
Recent Health Challenges:
In April 2023, Shakil’s health deteriorated following a routine check-up, with symptoms including vomiting, fatigue, and swelling. Emergency medical attention and an angiogram revealed that no further surgical options were available locally, as his heart function was critically compromised. Despite the grim outlook, Shakil’s spirit remains strong, and recent assessments have shown slight improvements, although his right ventricle remains enlarged and under significant strain.
Community Support and How to Contribute:
Numerous local businesses and organizations have stepped up to support Shakil, including Jivan Ramjee, Signet Terrace, Lotus School of Excellence, Carmins Copy Shop, The Globe Post, Blu Surge H2O, Bedford Bunny, Spears Dine-In, AGT Foods, VNJ Eastern Cape Wear, Cayman Trading, BNJ Tax, Flying Eagle, The Biodiversity Company, JYM Sound & Lighting, and Eastwave Radio.
The family is appealing to the community and compassionate individuals to continue supporting Shakil’s journey through donations via BackaBuddy. Every contribution, regardless of size, brings Shakil closer to the life-saving surgery he urgently needs.
How to Help:
To donate or learn more about Shakil’s story, please visit: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/a-beating-heart
Shakil’s story underscores the strength of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the critical need for international medical support for children facing complex health challenges in South Africa. His family remains hopeful that through collective effort and generosity, a miracle can be achieved.
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