Mariaan van Niekerk discharged from hospital after 15th successful surgery

After a harrowing two-month journey of surgeries, recovery, and emotional turmoil, Mariaan van Niekerk was discharged from the hospital and was now recovering at home.

This marks a significant milestone in her road to recovery following the boating accident on December 1, which caused life-threatening injuries.

Mariaan has undergone 15 surgeries, with each procedure playing a critical role in her recovery.

The last surgery, which took place recently, was a success, and her doctors are optimistic about her healing.

While she is still facing months of rehabilitation and care, including laser treatments for her scars, weekly visits from a wound care nurse, and sessions with an occupational therapist and physiotherapist, the family is relieved she can begin the next phase of her recovery in the comfort of home.

“It feels like a new chapter. The recovery is far from over, but just having her home with us brings a sense of peace and hope. We know there is a long road ahead, but we can finally be together as a family again,” said Marcel Conradie, Mariaan’s partner.

Mariaan’s condition following the accident was dire. She sustained severe injuries, including damage to her leg from the boat’s propeller, multiple broken bones, and extensive muscle damage.

Her recovery has been challenging, both physically and emotionally, but her determination to heal has never wavered.

“We still have six months of recovery ahead. But Mariaan is home, surrounded by loved ones. She will see a therapist for the emotional toll this ordeal has taken, but having Mia and the rest of our family around is important to her healing,” Marcel said.

The Conradie family remains incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from their community, friends, and family throughout this journey.

Marcel thanked several individuals whose kindness had been a beacon of light during these dark times.

“We owe so much to the people who have supported us. I thank my parents, Deon and Barbara Conradie, my brother Ashley, and my sister-in-law Deane for always being there. To my nephew Tyler, my grandmother Moira Erasmus, and my mother-in-law Denise Louw – thank you for your constant love and help,” Marcel said.

Marcel also expressed deep gratitude to their extended family and friends: “Lezelle and Bennie Kotze, thank you for everything you have done for us and Mia. Despite being in the hospital herself, Lezelle has been supportive and sent us messages daily. She is an example of strength,” he affirmed.

He continued: “To Shevaun Vermaak and their family, thank you for all your help on the day of the accident and your visits to the hospital. Your support has meant the world to us.”

The family also thanked Mark and Naomi Steele for their continued support and assistance throughout Mariaan’s recovery.

“A special thank you to Elaine from Beauty and the Barber for making Mariaan feel better by giving her a haircut and a full treatment. It was a thoughtful gesture and made an enormous difference to her spirits,” he said.

The family’s gratitude also extends to the community.

“We cannot thank everyone enough for the financial contributions we received. Every donation, the messages and prayers on BackaBuddy, WhatsApp messages, and the calls helped us get Mariaan home,” Marcel said.

For those who still wish to help, contact Marcel at 073 178 7704 or donate through the family’s BackaBuddy page.

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