Hilma Nalupe
Twenty-three-year-old Helena Shimbulu is battling a rare health condition that has not only made life difficult for her, but also one that has threatened to halt her dreams of becoming an occupational therapist.
Her life changed drastically in October last year when she was first hospitalised. Doctors found her platelet, iron and haemoglobin levels dangerously low, but no clear cause was identified.
In August this year, she finally received the devastating diagnosis: she has a very severe Aplastic Anaemia – a rare and life-threatening blood disorder that prevents her body from producing enough new blood cells.
“The unpredictability of my condition makes it hard for me to do many things. I can’t be as active as I want to be. The most challenging part has been the fear of just falling and dying,” Helena says.
Yet what keeps her going is the unwavering support of her family, friends, and community and her determination to keep doing the things she loves, from studying to sewing.
Helena’s illness has taken a heavy toll on her education. Helena is behind with her studies due to frequent hospitalisations but remains passionate about becoming an occupational therapist.
“This course allows me to be myself, to work with people, to help them, and meet them where they are. I’ve dreamt of getting my qualification because not many people in my family have gone to university. I wanted to be the one to show it’s possible, even for someone from a disadvantaged background,” she says.
Helena’s vision extends beyond her personal achievements. She dreams of starting a business to uplift her family, pass on skills to her younger cousins and help break the cycle of poverty.
But for these dreams to become reality, Helena urgently needs support. She is preparing for a bone marrow transplant, which her 22-year-old brother will donate. The procedure, costing N$1.5 million, will be covered by her medical aid.
However, her family needs an additional N$200,000 to cover accommodation, transport and meals during the two months they will spend in Cape Town for the surgery at Mediclinic Constantia Berg Hospital.
Her family is therefore appealing to the public to help raise the funds needed for the trip to Cape Town.
Despite her challenges, Helena offers a powerful message: acceptance and mindset are key.
“Your mindset can break every hope you have if you let it.
But if you accept the situation and work closely with your medical team, there is always a way forward. Some days will be stronger than others, but you take it as it comes,” she says.
Helena’s story is one of resilience, courage and hope and it urgently calls for help. has worked so hard for.