In March 2024, Mongikazi Ntunja arrived at Tygerberg Hospital with her three-week-old son, Lubanzi. He had just been diagnosed with bilateral clubfoot—an unfamiliar term that left Mongikazi unsure of what the future held for her baby boy.
“I had never heard of clubfoot,” Mongikazi recalls. “The nurse at the hospital told me my baby had clubfoot when he was born, but she didn’t seem too concerned. She reassured me that it could be corrected, which gave me hope.”
After being referred to the clubfoot clinic at Tygerberg Hospital from Khayelitsha Hospital, Mongikazi felt like she was stepping into the unknown. However, from the moment she arrived at the clinic, she was met with warmth and understanding.
“My baby’s journey really began at Tygerberg,” she explains. “On that first day, I was given all the information about his clubfoot. It didn’t scare me. The moment I heard it was treatable, I felt hopeful and positive.”
Mongikazi credits Jane from Steps Clubfoot Care with helping her through the early stages of Lubanzi’s treatment. “Everything was explained to me so nicely,” she says. “It made the whole process easier.”
Over the next few months, Lubanzi underwent a series of six plaster casts to correct his feet, followed by a tenotomy procedure. Today, he’s in the maintenance phase of his treatment, wearing his clubfoot brace at night and during naps to help prevent recurrence.
For Mongikazi, Lubanzi’s transformation has been incredible, and she now encourages other parents who may be facing the same situation. When asked what advice she would give to someone whose baby has been diagnosed with clubfoot, she responds with confidence and optimism.
“I would show them by example—just look at my son’s feet! Seeing him would give them hope and positivity. I would also educate them, letting them know that clubfoot is treatable and nothing to worry about. It just requires patience and dedication. Don’t miss any appointments!”
Lubanzi’s story is a reminder of the life-changing impact of early intervention and the right treatment. It’s also a testament to the resilience of children like Lubanzi and the unwavering support of their parents.
As Mongikazi says, “Seeing my son’s progress brings me so much joy. We’re grateful for the care and support we’ve received. My son’s future is full of possibilities.”
