Family, friends and patients of Dr David Gaotingwe Sello were shattered to learn of his passing Last Tuesday, 19 May. He died at the age of 44 and, according to the family, it was an unnatural death. An inquest docket has been opened.
The Herald previously reported in 2018,en a baby died after Dr Sello performed a skin graft on the child. His medical licence was revoked in 2019.
Motumi Daniel Hlahaswane, the family representative, says the family has lost its cement. “He was the anchor of the family; he loved them.
“He was there for any problem that arose.”
Hlahaswane describes Sello as a man who was God-fearing, friendly, kind-hearted and selfless. The doctor cared for the elderly and the needy. Hlahaswane says the practice would always start the day with a prayer. Sello wouldn’t charge senior citizens or those in need a consultation fee.
“He cared for his patients. He never slept when his patients were sick.
“He really loved helping,” Hlahaswane said.
He added that twice a year, Dr Sello would host an event for patients in need, where he and his friends would hand over food parcels.
Dr Sello was born and bred in Ikageng, Potchefstroom, but finished his schooling career in Itsoseng.
After he matriculated, he studied medicine at the University of Witwatersrand, where he obtained his Bachelor degree in Medicine and Surgery. Dr Sello owned and practised at his surgery in Potchefstroom.
Among the other qualifications he possessed, was a BA and Honours degree in Theology. Hlahaswane states that before his passing, he was busy with his Masters in Theology.
He further described Dr Sello as a preacher and teacher at heart.
Dr Sello was a Bishop at the St John’s Apostolic Faith Mission, Potchefstroom.
Hlahaswane says Sello wasn’t a man of many words, and when he preached, his sermons weren’t lengthy but were precise and carried meaning.
Dr Sello leaves behind his wife Cleo Sello and their five children.
Sello Cele, a close friend of Dr Sello, says they were very close and they had been friends since the early 80s. They were reunited when they were in university in the 90s.
He describes his friend as a generous and humble man. “He would offer help at any given stage to anyone, without expecting any-thing in return,” said Cele.
He says he would miss his friend dearly; the void that his passing has left would be too hard to fill. He says he has lost someone very dear to him.
The love Dr Sello had for his family and those close to him are some of the memories he will miss. Dr Sello also helped Cele’s son. “He saved my son and I will forever be grateful to him.”
Hlahaswane wishes to thank all who have supported the family and sent messages of comfort during their time of mourning.
Dr Sello’s funeral was held on Wednesday morning, 27 May.
