The team of doctors who successfully conducted a life-changing operation on Gauteng teenager, Ennica Mahkge, has been lauded for their selflessness and putting the province's medical capabilities on the spotlight.
Mahkge, who was born without a nose and nasal passages, breathed through an opening in her windpipe which was created at birth, but this left her vulnerable to upper respiratory tract infections.
However, through the efforts of doctors, comprising of nose, throat and ear specialist brothers, Johan and Hermann Kluge, Mahkge's life has now been changed forever.
The doctors performed the ground-breaking operation, which comprised of extensive jaw and facial surgery and a new nasal prosthesis, at the Mediclinic, Kloof in Pretoria.
This was a medical first in South Africa.
Gauteng Premier, Nomvula Mokonyane, today showered the medical team of specialists for the sterling life-changing operation they performed on the teen, saying their selflessness echoed the spirit of caring Gauteng residents are world-famous for.
"I applaud the team of doctors who performed the surgery - not only for their sterling work but also for rendering their services to the Mahkge family free of charge. Indeed, they have proven that the spirit of giving - so personified by icons such as Madiba - is alive and well in our province. To the team of doctors we say: may the Almighty continue to bless your work and make sure it touches many other lives," said Mokonyane.
"Thanks to your selfless actions, this young girl will soon be able to live a normal and healthy life," added Mokonyane.
For more information contact:
Thebe Mohatle
Premier's spokesperson
Cell: 082 373 1146
