VRYHEID KZN: Not all heroes wear capes

13-year-old Kethabahle Mbatha was on his way back from a prayer service on April 13 when the car he was travelling in collided with another vehicle at the corner of Hoog and Utrecht streets. Young Kethabahle sustained severe injuries and Frikkie Bekker from KwaZulu Private Ambulance Services confirmed that he had a humerus and femur fracture that required surgery. He was transported to a local hospital for further medical care.

Upon following up on Kethabahle’s progress the next morning, Frikkie realised that he needed an orthopaedic surgeon. With a femur fracture, time is of the essence, since it could potentially cut off the blood circulation to the lower leg, which could in turn lead to amputation of the limb. Frikkie was desperate to get the young boy the specialised care he needed, so he contacted Tia Ellis from AbaQulusi Private Hospital to enquire if she would be able to assist. Tia went out of her way and arranged for the young boy to be transferred to another facility in Pietermaritzburg. “I phoned an orthopaedic surgeon at the other facility, since a doctor has to receive a patient, and they agreed to accept the patient. I then arranged with Frikkie to transport the patient to Pietermaritzburg,” Tia explained.

Kethabahle’s mother, Simphiwe Xulu, is so grateful for the efforts of both Frikkie and Tia, who were willing to go the extra mile to help her family. Simphiwe was very emotional when she thanked Frikkie and Tia: “Guys, you’ve saved my son’s life. I wish I had something to give to Frikkie and Mrs Ellis to thank them. I am so grateful for their help.” Kethabahle received the much-needed medical care he required and is well on the way to recovery.

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