Ewan Griffioen has been diagnosed with Pompe disease, an inherited disorder caused by the build-up of a complex sugar called glycogen in the body’s cells. The accumulation of glycogen in certain organs and tissues, especially muscles, impairs their ability to function normally. The disease has affected the muscles in Ewan’s lower limbs and he struggles to walk. The disease is an autosome recessive disorder, meaning that it is genetically passed down from both parents. His mother, Marietjie, said they noted something was not right when Ewan was a year old. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease and he has to rely on constant medication and surgery.
Now, at the age of seven, Ewan still struggles to walk, although he can move around using his limbs. This follows surgery on his hip flexors that helped him start walking.
To assist in the medical bills, some runners from the Roodepoort Athletics Clubs have pledged their support and will participate in the upcoming Comrades Marathon, wearing t-shirts and blue ribbons that call on the community and the rest of the country to support Ewan and his family.
Marietjie added that her biggest wish is for South African hospitals to conduct screenings of newborn babies to diagnose the disease early on.
To assist, or for more information, contact Marietjie on 082 318 6275. To pledge support for the Comrades runners, contact Annelize Floor on 082 568 4230.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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