Baby Zayden Naicker, born on 26 February 2025 via emergency caesarean section, turns one year old on 26 February 2026. In January 2026 he received a diagnosis of Gorlin-Goltz syndrome, also known as Gorlin syndrome. Medical records and family statements confirm additional diagnoses including hydrocephalus, macrocephaly, epilepsy and global developmental delay, with reports stating he has been diagnosed with more than six ailments in total.
Help Zayden today: BackaBuddy
Gorlin-Goltz syndrome is a rare genetic disorder. Zayden’s documented symptoms include an unusually large head size (macrocephaly) that affects brain development, global developmental delay that limits his growth and ability to reach milestones, and epilepsy that produces unpredictable seizures, some of which have been life-threatening. One recorded seizure caused his heart rate to drop to 10 beats per minute; he was stabilised in hospital while connected to medical equipment.
Zayden requires regular appointments with multiple specialists. These include paediatricians, neurologists, oncologists, dermatologists and cardiologists. He also needs scans, MRIs, hospital visits and transport to and from appointments. The family has stated that government hospitals delayed his initial diagnosis and treatment, leading them to seek private care. They have exhausted their savings and credit facilities and do not have medical aid cover.
Help Zayden today: BackaBuddy
Zayden’s mother, Krizelle Naicker, aged 33, has described the family’s situation in statements published in local newspapers. The couple, who had difficulty conceiving and had prayed for a child, reported that the medical expenses for consultations, procedures, fuel, transport and hospital bills have become unsustainable. Every contribution is directed toward specialist visits, treatments, imaging and related costs.
The family has launched at least one BackaBuddy fundraising campaign to assist with hospital bills and daily living expenses associated with Zayden’s care. As of 3 February 2026, one campaign had received more than R25 500 in donations. The family continues to appeal for public assistance.
Community members who wish to offer support can contact Krizelle Naicker directly on 078 778 8998. Zayden’s parents have stated that any amount contributed will be used exclusively for his medical requirements and that he continues to require ongoing specialised intervention to manage his conditions.
BackaBuddy link: BackaBuddy
