Community support needed for Tafelsig boy with Type 1 diabetes

A Tafelsig single mother is appealing for community support to help her six-year-old son manage his Type 1 diabetes.

Sabir Waterloo, 6, was diagnosed in June 2024, and his family is raising funds to buy a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which is a diabetic sensor that will monitor his sugar levels more safely at school and at home. 

His mother, Nabeelah Waterloo, said Sabir’s sugar often drops suddenly, leaving him weak and sick.

“It is not always easy for teachers to tell when his sugar is low or high, especially if it’s the first time they have a diabetic pupil,” she said.

Since his diagnosis, Sabir has had to adjust to a strict routine of insulin injections, monitoring, and a carefully controlled diet. He takes insulin four times a day, and while his mother assists at school, teachers step in when she cannot be there.

Earlier this week, Sabir fainted outside after a sudden drop in his sugar levels. With the help of staff, the principal and deputy principal, he was rushed first to a nearby hospital and then transferred to Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, where his sugar was stabilised before he was discharged.

Doctors have recommended a continuous glucose sensor, which would allow caregivers to monitor his sugar without repeated finger pricks and alert them when his levels are too low or high, his mom said.

The sensor also helps determine how much insulin he needs before meals. The device must be replaced every two weeks, which adds to the cost. So far, the family has raised R5 000 through a BackaBuddy campaign, enough to cover the receiver that displays the readings, but not the full cost of the sensor.

Sabir has also had to give up certain activities. “He pushes himself because he really wants to play, but we have to limit him, especially on hot days,” Ms Waterloo said.

His diet has changed too; he can eat fruit and vegetables, but foods like bananas are restricted, and school tuck shop snacks are limited to sugar-free items and one packet of NikNaks.

“My son often asks why he is the one with diabetes and why he cannot do what other children do. We constantly have to explain what this means for his life,” she said.

“It is draining at times, especially when it comes to testing him. As a parent, I would do anything to take this away, but I can’t,” Ms Waterloo said.

The family hopes the community can help them provide the sensor and receiver to keep Sabir safe.

For more information, visit his BackaBuddy page or contact Ms Waterloo on WhatsApp at 081 075 5183.

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