FROM the moment he wakes up until he falls asleep, Bongani Mashao (26) is in constant pain.
A massive tumour that started as a small bump on the right side of his head in 2012 is now threatening to kill him.
Bongani, from Katlehong in Ekurhuleni, said he came to the People’s Paper to help him reach out to a doctor to remove the tumour that has consumed half his face.
The helpless man told Daily Sun he’s been living with the big growth on his face for the past five years and was only given false hope by doctors, who keep postponing his day for surgery.
He said doctors explained that it was a tumour but only gave him tablets to ease the pain. “I have waited for so long to get surgery at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital but they keep turning me back saying there is nothing they can do. I need help!” Bongani cried out.
He said after doctors first cut off the small bump to run tests, things turned ugly when the tumour suddenly started growing massively on his cheek.
“I am in pain from the moment I wake up until I fall asleep. I cannot live my life properly.
“My teeth hurt and I can’t chew. My head feels heavy and my eyesight is not good. I even struggle to breathe,” he said.
He told the SunTeam that surgery would make his life a lot better and that he dreamt of not having to wake up in pain.
“I want to see this burden gone so that I can live a normal life.”
Lesemang Matuka, Gauteng Department of Health’s acting head of communication, said: “Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital has invited the patient back for an assessment, which will inform clinicians on what course of action to take in managing his condition.”