Kempton Park golf day raises funds for Kobus Visagie’s recovery
Despite multiple interventions, his condition deteriorated, and in June the following year, one of his legs was amputated.
A spirit of unity and compassion was on full display at Kempton Park Golf Club recently, where a golf day fundraiser titled Help Kobus Rise brought together friends, family and supporters for a meaningful cause.
Organised by Gerhard Minnaar of Capital Civil and Building Construction, the event aimed to support his close friend, Kobus Visagie, and his family during an incredibly challenging period.
The turnout reflected the community’s strong support.
A total of 29 four-balls were sold, with 116 golfers taking to the course. In addition, eight hole sponsors attended with approximately 20 guests, while around 25 more supporters joined as walk-ins.
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Despite rainy weather temporarily interrupting play, participants returned to the course once conditions improved, demonstrating the resilience and positive spirit that defined the day.
“We wanted the day to be about fun, friendship and just all-around good vibes,” said Minnaar.
He explained that the fundraiser’s purpose was both urgent and heartfelt.
“As a family, they desperately need funds for medical bills and day-to-day living. Kobus would also really like to walk again, and this will be a costly exercise. We hope the funds raised will contribute towards this.”
Minnaar emphasised that the day was about more than financial support. “It was also important for him to see how much people believe in him and have his back when life gets tough.”
Minnaar and Visagie have been friends for over 30 years, having met as teenagers at school.
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“Kobus is a very dear friend of mine, almost my brother,” he said.
“We have been through so many things in life. Our beliefs are similar: God first, family second. We look out for each other, talk about life and share the lessons we learn.”
Visagie’s life changed dramatically following a series of medical challenges.
Years ago, he sustained an arm injury in a bus accident, which led to ongoing complications. Over time, he underwent two knee replacements, a hip replacement and multiple surgeries, while also battling infections and extended hospital stays.
His condition worsened when he developed septicaemia, a life-threatening infection that spread through his body. To save his life, doctors were forced to amputate both his legs.
“Even though he is alive, the physical, emotional and financial impact has been huge,” said Minnaar.
Visagie’s wife, Maryke, has remained by his side throughout, while their 12-year-old daughter, Minke, continues to hold onto hopes of sharing simple moments with her father again, laughing together, dancing, and one day walking down the aisle with him.
Medical costs have placed immense strain on the family, with medical aid no longer covering many of Visagie’s needs. Expenses for prosthetics, a specialised wheelchair, wound care, home modifications and transport continue to grow.
Minnaar described Visagie as someone who has always given back. “
He worked as an electrician and was always ready to assist people, even if they could not afford it. Now it is time for others to help him.”
Funds raised from the golf day will assist with medical expenses and daily living costs, as well as contribute towards essential equipment, including a custom wheelchair suited to his limited arm function and, potentially, prosthetics in the future.
“Hopefully, it will assist with the process; the final goal is to help Kobus walk again,” Minnaar said.
The community’s response left a lasting impression. “To have so many people attend and contribute was just heartwarming. It really meant a lot.”
Sponsors who supported the event included Pool Action, Clear Access, Capital Civil and Building Construction, Vulcania Reinforcing Solutions, Polokeho Lifting, Coating Worx, Intellisec Access Control and Isu Safety.
Visagie himself expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support.
“To say thank you doesn’t feel like enough. Seeing so many people come together like this, it’s an amazing feeling,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Visagie recalled that the turning point came in August or September 2024, when he suffered a serious fall while working at a house, resulting in a broken leg.
“What initially seemed like a severe but manageable injury soon escalated into a life-threatening situation,” he said.
While recovering in the hospital, he contracted an infection that led to septicaemia, triggering a cascade of medical complications.
“From there, everything just went pear-shaped,” he explained.
Despite multiple interventions, his condition deteriorated, and in June the following year, one of his legs was amputated. Efforts to save the other were unsuccessful, and both legs were eventually amputated.
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Adjusting to life after the accident has been difficult.
“It’s something to get used to, especially if you’ve been independent your whole life. Suddenly, you rely on people; it’s not easy,” he said.
He credited his wife and father for their unwavering support, as well as the continued operation of his business, which has helped provide some stability.
Visagie admitted he had not expected such a large turnout at the fundraiser.
“I thought maybe 40 or 50 people would show up, but seeing how many people came together, it’s unbelievable,” he said.
“Seeing people leave their work and homes on a Thursday to come and support me shows that people actually care.”
One of his highlights of the day was driving around the course, greeting supporters and sharing laughs. The event concluded with an auction and an evening gathering.
Looking ahead, Minnaar said there are discussions about possibly making the fundraiser an annual event, although no final decision has been made.
Ultimately, he said, the message behind the day is what matters most: people coming together to support someone in need.
Kobus summed it up simply: “I’ve helped others see the light my whole life, I just need to find mine again.”
Donations can still be made via the BackaBuddy campaign: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-kobus-rise-again
