Xander van Niekerk (14), a Hoërskool Fochville rugby player, sustained a fracture to his T12 vertebra and a dislocation of the vertebra below it on Saturday, March 28, during the Danie Rossouw Rugby Week.

He is currently being treated at Rob Ferreira Hospital and will undergo surgery on April 1.

To assist with ongoing medical costs and recovery, the Danie Rossouw Rugby Association shared a heartfelt message from the school to help raise funds.

“Xander is a proud ‘Fochie’ with big dreams of one day becoming a Springbok. Let’s help him tackle this challenge with courage. Together we stand strong. Please keep Xander and his family in your prayers,” read the school’s post.

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iSecure EMS, which treated Xander on site and transported him to hospital, has offered to take him home to Gauteng after his surgery at no additional cost.

“We would like to give back to the community and decided to help the family, as we know what it’s like for those who do not have medical aid,” said iSecure EMS director Dewald Strydom.

Van Niekerk’s school thanked the medical personnel and said this support brings great relief. He is expected to be discharged on Saturday, April 4.

The road to recovery, however, remains long. To date, R9 550 has been contributed to the school’s account to support Xander after his surgery.

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He will require ongoing home care and extensive physiotherapy, among other medical expenses.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can contribute to the following bank account:

Banking details:
ABSA (cheque account)
Account: 1610320127
Reference: Xander