‘It was extremely tough’ – David Rees grateful for another chance at life after spending 7 weeks in ICU

“I have hope and look forward to the fight to get back to my old self.”

Actor David Rees posing for a photograph at his home in Ruimsig, 7 January 2021, during an interview with The Citizen. Picture: Michel Bega

David Rees has shared an update almost two months after his team announced that he was back in ICU.

The actor said he has been home for some time and is well taken care of. However, he highlighted that the past weeks were difficult for him.

“It’s been a long haul. Massive heart attack, open heart surgery, lung infection and seven weeks in ICU. It was extremely tough.”

The 7de Laan star thanked people who showed him support and contributed towards his medical fees.

“I can’t begin to express how much it has helped. It’s almost two weeks now that I can walk almost normally. I have hope and look forward to the fight to get back to my old self. Still some time to go before I can say I’m on top of it all.

WATCH: Heartbreak as South Africans bid farewell to ‘7de Laan’ after 23 years

“So grateful to have been spared and to have another chance at life. There is still so much to live for, and I see that now. Thank you to everybody for the support. So much love.”

ALSO READ: ‘You saved my life’ – Almost R90k raised for 7de Laan star David Rees

David in and out of ICU in the past few months

In a statement released on 23 September, Rees’ team shared that he was back in ICU following a quadruple heart surgery and further surgery for a lung infection.

Before then he was admitted and released from the hospital on 25 August, after having a double bypass open heart surgery at Milpark Hospital.

During his hospitalisation, his manager, Corlia Strauss, told The Citizen that the actor needed financial support for his medication, therapy, rehabilitation, and other costs.

“David Rees remains in ICU, persistently battling towards recovery. The road has been arduous, and David keenly anticipates his return home.

“The influx of supportive messages and kindness has been a source of immense strength, and we are reaching out for continued assistance to facilitate David’s healing journey… David does not have medical aid, making the journey even more daunting.”

NOW READ: PICS: Faf de Klerk and his Miné celebrate 1st anniversary at Rugby World Cup