Night vigil in Hanny Street
Neighbours, community members and emergency services workers came together in support of a family affected by Covid-19.
With candles in their hands and “Hallelujah” playing in the background, residents in Claremont marched down Hanny Street on Friday night.
This special night vigil was for the Gerber family who were recently affected by Covid-19.
Johan Gerber (42), who previously tested positive for the virus, has been in hospital for the past three weeks.
Resident Andrea Kuhn, who organised the night vigil on a WhatsApp group, says almost all the residents in Hanny Street came together to show their support for Johan’s wife Sue and their seven-year-old son CJ.
Neighbours, a ward councillor and emergency services workers walked from Kuhn’s house to the Gerber residence, where they met an emotional Sue.
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Residents brought with them gifts that they handed over to the mum and boy.
“It was just a small gesture to say we care and we support them,” Kuhn said.
She said the residents in Hanny Street were very close to each other.
“We are a family and would enjoy regular street braai gatherings before lockdown.”
Tearful Sue thanked the residents: “You will not know how much it means to me, Johan and CJ”.
“This is the greatest gift we have ever received.”
Ward councillor Elma Nel said being able to be part of the night vigil was “particularly special”.
“In the darkest of times it is so encouraging to see how bright the flame of comradery and Christian love shines in Hanny Street,” she said.
“It is a privilege to experience how prayer and faith in our Almighty Heavenly Father bring us together.”
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