Stories after burns
Founded in 1956 as South Africa’s only dedicated specialist children’s hospital, the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital continues to treat hundreds of burn cases each year. Most involve children under the age of five, with injuries occurring in familiar home settings such as kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.
Clinicians say one of its most persistent challenges has not changed: childhood burn injuries that remain largely preventable.
As part of its 70-year commemorations, the hospital is highlighting long-term patient outcomes, including the story of William Baartman.
In 1977, he was four years old when a severe burn injury changed his childhood. He underwent prolonged treatment and rehabilitation.
