6-year-old recognised by Netcare Olivedale Hospital for courage after accident
After suffering a lip injury while playing with her younger brother, brave six-year-old Serurubele Malatji was honoured by Netcare Olivedale Hospital’s emergency team
Netcare Olivedale Hospital’s emergency department has awarded a six-year-old girl from Northriding a bravery medal after showing remarkable courage while getting stitches.
Serurubele Malatji was injured while at home with her younger brother, Moon, who is five years old. Their mother, Candice Malatji, explained that the siblings were playing a game called ‘ghosts’ before school when the incident occurred.
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“Serurubele had a blanket over her head and was trying to catch Moon. She couldn’t see properly and accidentally bumped into the back of a chair, splitting her lip open,” she said.
Her parents tried to stop the bleeding but realised the wound was deep, so, they rushed her to Netcare Olivedale Hospital’s emergency department.
Despite the pain, Serurubele remained calm throughout her visit. “She is a very brave child and stayed strong. The nurses were very gentle and welcoming, which helped a lot,” her mother added.
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The hospital staff were so impressed with her courage that they awarded her one of their first bravery medals of 2025. Moon also received a medal for supporting his sister.
Netcare Olivedale Hospital has a tradition of recognising young patients’ bravery with medals donated by community members.
General manager Eugene Ferreira praised Serurubele’s calmness. “Well done to our little patient Serurubele for staying cheerful throughout her visit,” he said.
He also thanked the community for donating their old sports medals, which help make children’s hospital visits a more positive experience.
Serurubele and Moon proudly showed off their medals, turning a scary moment into a happy memory.
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