Exploring South Africa’s rich landscapes and birdlife took a drastic turn for Russian nature enthusiasts Yana and Mikhail Sokolova, following a motor vehicle accident on the road to eMkhondo (Piet Retief) in Mpumalanga on August 20.

The accident left them injured and stranded in the country until such time that Mikhail is stable enough to travel home.

Meanwhile, they find themselves hurt and bewildered in a foreign country, unable to understand the medical personnel. Although a doctor who speaks some Russian has been located, most of the time the language barrier heightens their fear and worsens an already stressful situation.

Yana says that her medical cover will not pay for the operation to her elbow that she desperately needs. She needs to fly back to Russia for treatment, but is unwilling to abandon her husband in South Africa.

Explaining how the accident happened, Yana says the couple’s flight to Mkuze in KZN was rescheduled, forcing them to spend the night in eMkhondo. The head-on collision occurred while they were on their way to their guest house, says Yana, who doesn’t remember much about the accident.

Mikhail stepped into action, calling the guest house and emergency services.

“My husband said some people stopped and helped,” says Yana.

While Mikhail assisted his wife, despite being unaware of his own injuries, it soon became clear they were severe.

Yana sustained a broken elbow and multiple bruises, while Mikhail suffered a broken arm and ankle, as well as internal trauma to his stomach, resulting in internal bleeding.

Urgent medical attention was crucial, and the couple was transported to Mkhondo Hospital for examinations. They were then transferred to Ermelo Hospital.

Yana says she is grateful to everyone who is assisting them.