We’re reaching out to our community to help a truly extraordinary young boy — Peter (Mbongeni) Nkala a bright, polite, and kind-hearted 13-year-old who has touched the lives of everyone who meets him. His mother, a valued member of our team at Patato Patch, whom some may know, Kim, is a single parent raising three children on her own. Despite the many challenges she faces, she has always given her children love, stability, and strength. Sadly, Kim is the only parent actively involved in her children's day to day lives which has meant she has had to face this heartbreaking battle alone.

Recently after many tests, Peter was diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, a vary rare, scary (google it) and aggressive autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues. It has already begun to affect his internal organs, and he has suffered significant internal organ damage. Yet, in true Peter fashion, he continues to face each day with courage, grace, and his gentle smile that brightens every room.

Peter has been having treatment here in Bulawayo, which sadly is not working and or slowing the progression of this disease and his symptoms and pain levels have only worsened. There are no other treatment options available here and South Africa would be too expensive. He is declining fast and Doctors have advised that a stem cell transplant offers Peter his best — and possibly ONLY — chance at life. This life-saving treatment is available in India, and we are doing everything we can to get him there as soon as possible. The treatment alone and with no complications, before flights, visas, accommodation and tests will already be USD 25000.00. Unfortunately, the costs involved in medical treatment, travel and ongoing care are far beyond what his mother can manage on her own and the medical aid is at its maximum.

We are asking for your help — whether through donations or by sharing this campaign — to give Peter the chance to grow up, go to school, laugh with his friends, and live the full, beautiful life every child deserves.

Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference.

Please help us bring hope and healing to Peter, his devoted mother and all who care for him!

Cash donations are welcome. We will have books to record these at either Patato Patch, Eskies at Zonke, or Kitchens 4 Africa.

There will be a full set of records kept for anyone that needs to see this. We also have all documents to confirm diagnosis and medical quotes on hand. We will have updates as soon as we raise enough to get him to India to start the tests they need.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness and generosity.

Together, we can help save a beautiful young life.