After a routine shopping trip turned into tragedy, Itayi Madziwe’s story has sparked a powerful community call to action.

The 44-year-old Ballito domestic worker was paralysed from the waist down after being struck by a stray bullet while shopping at Stanger SuperSpar on May 18.

Moved by her story, Access 2 Africa Safaris CEO Jennae Bezuidenhout launched a BackaBuddy fundraising campaign to assist with Itayi’s medical and living expenses.

“My husband was a quadriplegic for 24 years, so I understand what the family is going through,” said Bezuidenhout.

“I visited them with groceries, a pressure mattress, wound care medication and emotional support.”

As previously reported by the Courier (‘Stray bullet changes family’s life forever’, September 5), the bullet pierced Itayi’s ribs and lungs before lodging in her spine. Doctors deemed surgery too risky.

Since then, she has remained bedridden, relying on her husband to turn her every two hours to prevent sores and infections. The couple have three children, aged 13, 12 and 7.

Her husband recalled the horror:

“I heard a gunshot. I turned around and saw her on the floor. I was told not to touch her and to wait for the ambulance.”

KwaDukuza police confirmed a 26-year-old man was arrested and charged with three counts of attempted murder and discharging a firearm in a public place.

“No one should face this kind of suffering alone. Together, we can make a difference,” said Bezuidenhout.

To help, visit the BackaBuddy page: “Support for Itayi Madziwe.”

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