UPDATE: Cyclists injured in John Ross parkway accident on the mend
Both Neil McMaster and Daniel Titus are positive and recovering in leaps and bounds
DESPITE the severity of their injuries from Saturday morning’s accident on the John Ross Parkway, cyclists Neil McMaster and Daniel Titus are making good recovery.
They were injured when an alleged drunk driver ploughed into a group of local cyclist out on a training run.
‘The doctors are amazed at how well Neil is progressing in his recovery and they say his fitness levels, healthy lifestyle and positive attitude all play a major part,’ said Virna McMaster.
When Neil was determined to have suffered spinal injuries, he was transferred to Netcare Umhlanga Hospital, where he underwent numerous scans in the intensive care unit (ICU).
The scans revealed fractures to his L1 and L2 vertebrae. He has since been moved into a surgical ward and is responding well to physiotherapy.
‘The physio has got him walking around the ward, even up the stairs, twice a day and is happy with his progress,’ said Virna.
While Neil does not require surgery, he must wear a brace for at least six weeks.
The accident may have put paid to Neil’s chances of competing in the Argus cycle race in Cape Town this weekend, but if doctors remain happy with his recovery, he plans to fly down to provide moral support to his teammates.
After suffering a concussion from the accident, Titus was discharged from Netcare The Bay Hospital on Saturday and by Tuesday was already back at work.
‘I don’t remember the accident and I am still missing a portion of my memory from Friday night, but things are coming back to me slowly,’ he said.
‘I have scratches and bruises, but other than that I am feeling strong and looking forward to Sunday’.
While Daniel hopes to compete in the Argus on Sunday, he is taking necessary precautions, both with his health and his bicycle.
‘I will fly down to Cape Town on Thursday (today) as planned with my bicycle, but will only make the final decision as to whether or not to compete once I have seen my doctor in Cape Town on Friday.
‘As for my bike, I have replaced one of the gears which was damaged. Other than that it seems fine, but is being inspected to make sure’.
Both cyclists conveyed their gratitude to Vaughn Govender, the motorcyclist who went out of his way to chase down the driver who fled the scene. ‘Without Vaughn, the driver could have gone on to cause another similar or worse accident,’ said fellow cyclist Jan-Harm van der Merwe.
Khulekani Dlamini (29) on Monday appeared at Richards Bay District Court on charges of reckless and negligent driving with his blood alcohol level above the legal limit and driving without a valid licence.
He was released on R1 000 bail and the case was remanded to 13 April for further investigation.
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