At 21 weeks into her pregnancy, Thembe Moyo received distressing news from medical professionals about the complications in her pregnancy. The developing fetus in her uterus was afflicted with nasal encephalocele, a condition where a significant portion of the brain protruded outside the skull onto the forehead. Sipho Moyo, the father of the child, expressed his sorrow, reliving the harrowing moments: “To put it differently, he wouldn’t possess humanity. He was not destined to become a human being.”
This particular case posed a unique challenge for the doctors, who had never encountered an encephalocele of such magnitude. Consequently, their prognosis was cautious. Nonetheless, the ultimate decision rested with the parents, who were compelled to determine whether to proceed with the birth of a baby with such a condition.
They opted for life, and their son was born prematurely, a few weeks before the expected due date. After six days, he underwent an extensive operation, during which his brain was carefully repositioned inside his skull.
Despite facing seemingly insurmountable odds, the operation proved successful. Three years after that fateful moment, Jayden is a robust, joyful, and delightful child. The parents made the correct choice! “Considering all he has been through, his smile is truly remarkable,” remarked Mr. Moyo.
Medical professionals assert that Jayden is not expected to experience any enduring side effects.
In response to their journey, Mr. and Mrs. Moyo established a charitable organization named Face Up, aiming to offer support to individuals with facial differences. “We currently inhabit a world obsessed with perfection, but life itself is not flawless. Even by global standards, Jayden may not be considered perfect, but what defines perfection?” Mrs. Moyo pondered.
