Aldus Smith, the well-known paramedic who underwent a third major back operation in March, has shown remarkable recovery thanks to the open-hearted efforts of various role-players in the community.

During the surgery, doctors placed an external cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drain to help the wound dry and heal properly. The wound has healed well and Aldus is on track to make a full recovery. He had previously sustained this injury in the line of duty as a paramedic.

His wife, Annika, would like to thank various members of the community for their assistance, whether financially, emotionally, or through their professional expertise.

This includes biokineticist Rouan Knoesen and physiotherapist Anita van der Lingen-Venter, who did not hesitate to take Aldus under their wing post-laminectomy.

“I especially want to say thank you to Rouan and Anita, who dedicated their valuable time to us without expecting anything in return. Their expert knowledge, help, exercises, and support in strengthening Aldus’s back again after his surgeries have been invaluable. ‘We need to get Aldus back on his feet again! Remember, he is everyone’s 911!’ were Anita’s exact words,” said Annika.

“One person with a big heart that I would really like to single out in our community is Christie Lauwrens and his team at EB’s Hardware. Potch is incredibly privileged to have you, Christie, as part of our community,” she added.

She also thanked André Koch from Potchefstroom Studentebehuising for his major contribution towards Aldus’s medical expenses, as well as Dr Masedi Mohale and his team at Potchefstroom Mediclinic for their expertise and care during his surgery.