In the serene beauty of Alberta, the Van Heerden family lives a life full of love, laughter, and resilience. Blessed with three children, this family thrives on outdoor adventures—camping, hiking, and skiing together, creating memories that bind them closer. While both parents contribute to the workforce—one in pharmaceutical Women’s Health and the other as a Director of Finance—they also navigate the complex world of raising a child with hydrocephalus. Their story is one of perseverance, hope, and community support, resonating with families like theirs across Canada
The Van Heerden’s eldest daughter, Unel, a remarkable 16-year-old, has faced this challenging diagnosis since before her birth. Within just 2 hours into her life, she underwent her first brain surgery and, since then, has bravely faced seven additional surgeries and a stroke. Her tenacity shines through, even on tough days when she battles to walk and speak following her latest health setbacks. Despite these hurdles, she embodies the spirit of a “Hydro-Warrior,” illuminating lives around her with humor and passion.
Inspired by their experiences, the Van Heerden family co-founded with “Ignite Hope,” a Hydrocephalus Canada support group that stands as a beacon for other families impacted by hydrocephalus in Alberta. This initiative provides much-needed encouragement, fostering a safe space where parents can share their challenges and triumphs. They understand that sharing their tales offers hope and serves as a reminder that joy can unfold even amidst the storms of life.
The profound impact of hydrocephalus extends beyond physical health; it has reshaped the Van Heerden family’s perspective on life itself. Within this journey, they consciously choose to focus on gratitude, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. They have discovered that through every challenge lies an opportunity to grow closer, learning to embrace life’s ups and downs with grace. Their mantra—”We are not raising children but raising future adults”—is a testament to their dedication in nurturing resilience and independence in all their children.
As they envision the future, the family hopes Unel will embrace the joys of adulthood, one filled with purpose and passion. Unel is planning a gap year dedicated to volunteering abroad, channeling her love for science into a potential career in ocean and environmental sciences. Such ambitions speak to the unwavering potential that thrives within children, despite the challenges they may face.
While navigating this path is undeniably tough, the Van Heerden family emphasizes the importance of community and support. Their experiences lead to valuable advice for parents raising children with disabilities:
- Connect with Understanding Communities: Surrounding oneself with family, friends, or support groups that empathize can lighten the emotional load.
- Educate and Communicate: Helping others understand the invisible challenges of hydrocephalus fosters a more supportive environment for both the child and their family.
- Simplicity is Key: Focusing on what truly matters and prioritizing self-care is crucial for maintaining balance.
- Nature Heals: Time spent outdoors, immersed in nature, proves beneficial for healing both physically and emotionally.
The Van Heerden family embodies resilience, hope, and community, and is just one of the reasons why Hydrocephalus Canada is so committed to building and supporting a community for those impacted by the conditions of hydrocephalus and spina bifida. For over 50 years, Hydrocephalus Canada has connected the hydrocephalus and spina bifida communities through services, support, education, awareness and research. By sharing their story, they invite you to join them in this journey. Your support can lead not only to greater visibility for the challenges faced by families affected by hydrocephalus but can also provide vital resources for research, support, and community education. Together, we can foster hope, create networks of understanding, and ensure that Hydro-Warriors like Unel continue to thrive.
With your help, we can launch initiatives that empower families, create awareness, and ultimately bring us closer to better treatments and understanding of hydrocephalus. Join the Van Heerden family and countless others in supporting Hydrocephalus Canada. Together, let’s embrace hope and ensure brighter futures for all.
Your gift to Hydrocephalus Canada will provide life changing support services, ongoing opportunities for connection for parents, youth and adults and a place to learn and grow.
You know how important our mission is and the kind of impact that can be made. If you are able, please give what you can – every dollar is vital, and we are grateful for every contribution.
Your gift of $50, $75, $100 or any amount you choose will allow families like the Van Heerden’s to find a supportive community that they can call home – for themselves and their children. Please make your donation by filling out the donation form HERE. All gifts over $10 will be eligible for a tax receipt.
Thank you!
Anriette Van Heerden
