A Christmas wish come true

After being bed ridden for almost six months it was a Christmas wish come true when six-year-old Goodenough Mcineka went for a flip in a helicopter for the second time in his short life – and this time he is sure to remember the experience.

Goodenough was airlifted to Albert Luthuli hospital in a critical condition on May 26 after being hit by a car while crossing the road on the Shaka’s Head N2 bridge.

He had been on his way to school with his twin siblings, Sphiwe and Zanele (12) and his big sister Thandi Mhlongo (16).

When his father Wiseman (40) arrived at the accident said he thought he had lost his youngest child.

“He was not breathing and his injuries were terrible. I thought it was too late,” said Wiseman.

He said his family was so grateful to the IPSS Medical Rescue paramedics who tended to Goodenough on that fateful day.

“They visited Goodenough in hospital on his birthday, which is when they learned that he remembers nothing of his flight to hospital. We are amazed at what they are doing for him now.”

Wiseman said it has been a slow and difficult recovery and his son has missed going to school

“He still needs to have another operation next year but I hope he will be able to attend school in the mean time.”

Goodenough took his twin siblings with him on the flight and all three children were delighted with the experience.

Paramedic Paul Herbst said the small boy had crept into their hearts and they were delighted to be able to grant his Christmas wish.

After the flight the paramedics presented all four children with gifts: toy cars and lego for Goodenough, a cellphone for Thandi, barbies for Zanele and a bicycle (his first) for Siphiwe.

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