Beukes fell ill in December with a viral infection that triggered PIMS (Paediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome), an aggressive autoimmune condition. This was followed by a secondary streptococcal infection, which caused Beukes to suffer several strokes and severe cerebral damage, says the radio station. 

Today, Beukes lives with his father, Hendrik Beukes and 15-year-old sister Ané, with Hendrik doing all he can to care for his children. While Beukes is currently in a rehabilitation facility partially covered by medical aid, the financial burden of his continued care once he returns home is overwhelming, says Jacaranda FM. 

The radio station says that community members, including school and family friends, reached out to Good Morning Angels for support. 

According to the radio station, the support received includes:

  • Round Table Pretoria donated R50 000 towards Beukes's care
  • the Caring Daisies, long-time supporters of community upliftment, added R50 000
  • Corestruc contributed R30 000 for home care and medical bills, and
  • the Good Morning Angels Fund NPC also pledged R30 000 to help bring Beukes home.

"No 10-year-old should have to go through what Eben is going through — and no father should have to do it alone," says Martin Bester, host of Jacaranda FM's Breakfast with Martin Bester. "This is what Good Morning Angels is about — giving families like the Beukes family the support they need when life becomes too much to carry on their own. We're proud to stand with them."

The R160 000 donation will go towards equipping Beukes's home for his arrival, providing specialised medical equipment and easing the financial strain on his family as they prepare to take on the immense challenge of full-time care, says the radio station. 

Jacaranda FM concludes that its Good Morning Angels initiative continues to bring hope to South Africans facing hardship, and Beukes's story is a reminder that when communities come together, even the darkest days can be met with light.

For more information, visit www.jacarandafm.com. You can also follow Jacaranda FM on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of contributor