Tshepi, a user on X (formerly Twitter), recently brought attention to the plight of Michelle Sekwena, who is urgently seeking funds for a medical breast reduction surgery. Tshepi took to X to share Michelle’s story, saying, “Morning guys, I’m humbly requesting for your assistance. Below is Michelle, a young lady who needs to urgently raise funds for her medical breast reduction. Kindly click on the link to follow her story on TikTok. She has a Back-A-Buddy link for donations.”
Michelle, who goes by the name Michelle Kino on her TikTok page, has been struggling with a rare condition known as Gigantomastia, which has caused her breasts to grow excessively large. In a heartfelt post on under her donation link, Michelle explained the struggles she’s been facing since her breast size changed dramatically. “In 2024, my breasts started getting very huge until an abnormal size. I was a 32B cup size, and now I do not know what size I wear. I tried on different bra sizes, but none fit,” Michelle shared.
Her condition is not genetic, and despite visiting several government hospitals, Michelle found no immediate help. The physical pain has taken a significant toll on her life. “My back hurts, and I can’t even walk properly like before. My knees hurt because of standing all day at work. People started calling me names, and I became a laughing stock at work. My confidence went to zero,” she added, explaining how her condition has affected her mentally and physically.
In addition to the pain, Michelle also experiences visible veins on her chest, constant headaches, and discomfort from the weight of her breasts. The emotional strain has caused her depression to worsen, and she now prefers staying indoors to avoid being judged or stared at in public. “Having people look at me every time I go somewhere is very uncomfortable,” Michelle confessed. “I need help.”
Michelle has set a fundraising goal of R100,000 to cover the costs of her surgery, but so far, she has only raised R58,054. People have rallied around her, offering donations, advice, and words of encouragement. One user, @setlhalokat, suggested Michelle check with the Gauteng Health Department for free services at hospitals like George Mkhari, Steve Biko, Bara, and Joburg Gen. Another user, @MatisoSiba, shared that there’s a Facebook group, ‘SA Breast Reduction,’ that connects people with medical professionals who may assist with the procedure.
However, not all advice has been positive. Some users, like @yendempumie, pointed out the long waiting list for surgery at public hospitals. “She did check with those and there is a six-year waiting list, and she is currently suffering from a disease that makes her breast grow,” they wrote.
In a bid to gather more support, some users even tagged celebrities to raise awareness. @Jubi_1307 tagged notable figures like Lamiez Holworthy, Sizwe Dhlomo, Anele, Somizi, Cassper Nyovest, and Bonang, urging them to assist with spreading the word or donating.
Michelle’s followers on TikTok have also shown their support with messages of encouragement and hope. “Praying that you get approved for surgery,” one commenter wrote. “Regardless of what, you look beautiful,” another added, with others empathizing with her pain and struggles.
According to Cleveland Clinic, the condition Michelle is suffering from is known as Gigantomastia. It’s a rare and often painful condition where the breasts become excessively large due to rapid tissue growth. This condition can lead to pain, discomfort, and body image issues, often requiring breast reduction surgery or other medical interventions for relief. Gigantomastia typically affects people assigned female at birth and can develop over weeks, months, or even years.
Michelle’s case highlights the emotional, physical, and mental toll that conditions like Gigantomastia can take, and the need for immediate medical assistance.
Morning guys, I'm humbly requesting for your assistance. Below is Michelle, a young lady who needs to urgently raise funds for her medical breast reduction. Kindly click on the link to follow her story on TIKTOK. She has a Back-A-Buddy link for donationshttps://t.co/g7xv0axM9G pic.twitter.com/5pgqcIaEOB
— Tshepi (@LetoabaRosemary) January 21, 2025 @michelle_kino #fyp #macromastia vs Gigastomasia #grwm ♬ original sound – Michelle Sekwena
