Community rallies in support of Kobus
He is believed to be in a serious but stable condition and although he is on a mask ventilator, he is able to talk and communicate with members of his family
ON Wednesday morning, the family of Empangeni resident Kobus ‘Kokkie’ van Wyk (41), who was paralysed following a motorbike accident in Empangeni on Friday, still awaited confirmation of when his spinal fusion operation would take place.
He is believed to be in a serious but stable condition and although he is on a mask ventilator, he is able to talk and communicate with members of his family.
While he awaits surgery in Durban’s Netcare Umhlanga Hospital, his colleagues at the Umhlatuze Pharmacy Group – where Kobus has worked as a pharmacist assistant for 25 years – have rallied together to ensure that his family, wife and two children are able to see to their needs during this trying time.
MD of the Group, Taffy Kriel, confirmed a bank account has been opened to ensure funds donated could be properly facilitated.
Also, a Whatsapp message group could keep concerned friends up to date with Kobus’s progress (082 7461185).
‘Messages of encouragement, love and support can be sent to his family on 073 2390206,’ said Kriel.
‘Kokkie, we know you have great strength and you do not give up when facing anything life throws at you.
‘You are incredible and you make this world a little bit more wonderful. Now is the time that you have to be even stronger!’Financial donations can be transferred to: Kobus van Wyk Fund, Nedbank Corporate Saver, Savings account number 9020365606, branch code 720026
ALSO READ: Support pours in for brave Kobus after paralysis diagnosis
Thousands respond
Kobus is reported to have rode into a bakkie doing a U-turn close to Empangeni High School at about 2pm in wet, rainy conditions on Friday.
Kobus was thrown into the air on impact and reportedly landed head first on the tarmac.
He was rushed to the Netcare Bay Hospital before being transferred to Netcare Umhlanga Hospital. Since breaking the news online on Monday of Kobus’ horrific incident, the ZO’s post has reached close to 23 000 people.
Countless Zululanders reacted, shared and commented on the article, many with kind words of inspiration for Kobus and his family.
Lainz Art wrote: ‘The most kind hearted and happy humble soul, always so helpful when I need something from the pharmacy.
‘Thinking and praying for him and his family during this difficult time just to say thank you God for sparing his life.’
Melini Govender wrote: ‘Although we are absolutely heartbroken, we are also grateful to still have Kobus alive.
‘Keeping him in prayer.’
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
