Disappearing History of My Sizwe Medical Aid Membership

I have been with Sizwe Medical Aid since 1994/1995, and when it later merged into Sizwe Hosmed Medical Scheme, I remained a client. However, in January 2024, when my son who was born using the same medical aid ,was now an adult and billed as one, I could no longer afford it, I decided to switch to a different medical aid. To my surprise when I requested my Membership Certificate from Sizwe Hosmed, it indicated that I only joined the medical aid in January 2008. Despite using this medical aid throughout my entire life they now claim not to recognise my membership prior to 2008. When sending enquiries , I am told they only keep records for 5 years. The whole history of my membership with them seemed to have vanished. Due to this injustice, I am being unfairly charged a late joiner fee when attempting to join new medical aids. Thanks to Sizwe Hosmed Medical Scheme, after over 25 years of loyalty, I find myself unable to afford medical aid due to these additional charges.