Verwoerdpark’s family ongoing battle after boating accident
After undergoing 14 surgeries, Mariaan van Niekerk’s recovery is showing promising signs. While the road ahead remains long, her family remains hopeful and grateful for the support they’ve received, eagerly anticipating the day she can finally return home.

The Conradie family is holding onto hope as Mariaan van Niekerk’s recovery continues following a devastating boating accident on December 1 last year.
After undergoing 14 surgeries, Mariaan’s condition is slowly improving. While there are still challenges ahead, her family remains optimistic that she will soon be able to return home and begin the next phase of her recovery in a more comfortable environment.
Her partner, Marcel Conradie, and their young daughter, Mia, survived the incident, but Mariaan’s physical and emotional journey since that day has been nothing short of harrowing.
What was supposed to be a relaxing family outing following a fishing competition quickly turned tragic when Conradie’s boat lost power, leading to a collision with a friend’s boat.
Mariaan sustained life-threatening injuries, including severe damage to her leg from the boat’s propeller, broken bones, and muscle damage. Though their daughter Mia was physically unharmed, she was emotionally shaken by the event.

Conradie, despite his own injuries, acted quickly to rescue his family from further danger.
However, Mariaan was airlifted to Milpark Hospital, where she was immediately placed in the trauma ICU. Doctors said her injuries would require multiple surgeries to repair the extensive damage, with each surgery taking between four to five hours.
Friday’s operation, January 17, will determine the next step in her recovery.
While there is progress, her leg remains a significant concern, with the infection still being treated. Her arm is healing well, especially after a skin graft was performed. The recovery of her elbow and broken bones is also progressing, albeit slowly.
Conradie said that the toll on Mariaan’s mental health has been heavy, as the prolonged hospital stay has left her longing for home and the comfort of her family.
“The doctors and nurses have been amazing, but she misses Mia so much and is struggling with being away from home. Despite this, Mariaan remains determined to stay strong, focusing on her long-term recovery and looking forward to reuniting with her family,” Conradie stated.
The emotional strain is compounded by financial difficulties.

Mariaan was scheduled to start a new job as a draughtswoman just days after the accident, but her recovery has left her without a job as the company has terminated her contract completely.
“It’s been an incredibly tough year for us already, and now this has made things so much harder,” Conradie shared.
The family has been overwhelmed by the support they’ve received from friends, family, and the community.
Conradie expressed deep gratitude to those who have provided financial assistance, including donations through BackaBuddy, and to everyone who has sent well wishes and prayers.
“We have managed to raise over R44 000 through BackaBuddy which goes a long way in ensuring that our Mariaan comes back home to us. Every message, and every donation, means the world to us. We are truly blessed and grateful for the love and support we’ve received,” he said.
In addition to the financial contributions, the family has been supported by loved ones, including Marcel’s parents, his brother and his family, as well as friends who have rallied around them, offering emotional support and helping with Mia’s care.
“We can’t thank everyone enough. You’ve all kept us going through this incredibly tough time,” Conradie added.

As Mariaan continues her recovery in the hospital, the family remains hopeful.
For those looking to offer further assistance, Conradie can be reached on 073 178 7704, or donations can be made via the family’s BackaBuddy page.
Despite the immense challenges ahead, the family remains strong, fuelled by love, faith, and the unwavering support of their community.
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