For over ten years, 43-year-old Petros Malepe from Manoke Village in Burgersfort, Limpopo, carried the burden of a massive keloid growth that weighed heavily on his physical health, self-confidence, and way of life. Now, after a successful surgical procedure at Mankweng Hospital earlier this month, Petros has been given a fresh start—and he is determined to reclaim the life he once knew.
On Tuesday, 2 September, surgeons at Mankweng Hospital removed a 3.58kg keloid from under his chin, a growth that had plagued him for more than a decade. The procedure has been described as life-changing, offering him relief after years of discomfort and emotional strain. Speaking after the operation, Petros could hardly contain his gratitude.
“I didn’t encounter any challenges. They treated me well. I’m happy that the surgery was successful. My family is also happy. I’m happy and I’m going back to play soccer, because I love football,” he told Daily Sun.
Petros, a soccer enthusiast, shared that his greatest wish is to return to the pitch once his recovery is complete. Having been sidelined from his passion for years, the thought of playing again brings him immense joy and hope.
Concerns Over Recurrence
Despite the successful surgery, Petros remains cautious. Doctors have yet to administer radiation therapy, a crucial step in preventing the keloid from reappearing.
“They said they’ll perform the radiation as soon as I’m healed. For now, we are not 100% sure the keloid will not come back,” he explained.
Dr. Ephraim Kgoete, chairman of the Khayalami Foundation, confirmed that radiation therapy is critical in such cases. “The process is recommended within three days after the operation. Keloids reoccur. If you operate someone with keloids and you don’t do radiation, the keloids may reoccur,” he said. Radiation, he explained, burns the cells responsible for multiplying and forming new scar tissue.
Community Support and Fundraising
Petros’ story gained traction on social media, prompting a wave of public support. The Khayalami Foundation, in collaboration with Breaking New Grounds Foundation, launched a donation drive to support his medical needs. A total of R27,000 was raised, though it fell short of the intended target and was not directly used for his surgery since he received help at a public hospital.
“We are going to launch a petition to seek advice from the public and our donors because we must be honest with them to say the funds were not used for the intended purpose,” Dr. Kgoete said.
The foundation has also announced plans to host a celebratory event in November 2025 to honor Petros’ recovery. While the date is yet to be confirmed, the event is expected to highlight his resilience and inspire others facing similar challenges.
A New Chapter of Hope
The Limpopo Department of Health has also emphasized the importance of the procedure. Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego stated, “The procedure will not only improve Mr. Malepe’s physical appearance but will bring relief.”
For Petros, the surgery marks more than just the removal of a keloid—it is the beginning of a new chapter filled with hope, renewed confidence, and the dream of returning to the soccer field he loves so dearly.
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