A Pretoria east general practitioner has been hailed as an ‘unsung hero’ after years of quietly providing medical assistance to community safety volunteers, crime victims, and residents in need.

Dr DJ du Toit was recently recognised by Alpha Security Forum for his continued support of the organisation and the wider Pretoria east community.

Forum manager Aris Ruyter said many residents may not realise the extent of the doctor’s contribution because he has never sought recognition for his work.

“Many of you may not know this, but Dr du Toit has quietly stood alongside Alpha Security Forum for a long time,” said Ruyter.

“Whether it’s an injured patroller, a victim needing urgent medical advice or one of our responders needing assistance after hours, he has never hesitated to help.”

Ruyter said Du Toit has often provided treatment free of charge, requesting payment only for basic medical consumables when necessary.

He said the doctor’s compassion was once again evident after Ruyter’s son was injured in a bicycle accident over the weekend.

“The care, compassion and professionalism shown to him and our family reminded me why people like him deserve to be recognised publicly.”

Ruyter said community safety extends far beyond the efforts of the police, security companies and volunteer patrollers.

He added that it’s also about the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and countless professionals “who quietly stand behind us when things go wrong”.

Responding to the recognition, Du Toit said he believes every person has a responsibility to become actively involved in strengthening their community.

“I have always believed that active involvement in one’s immediate community is of great importance. Since relocating to Pretoria approximately three years ago, I have been involved with Alpha and have sought to contribute wherever possible.”

He said strong communities are built on people supporting one another.

Du Toit believes that every individual has a responsibility to assist others when they are able to do so, while also being willing to accept assistance when needed.

“Strong communities are built on mutual support, co-operation, and a shared commitment to the well-being of others.”

He said he has been able to contribute in various ways, including treating injured patrollers, providing wound care and suturing for elderly residents who cannot afford medical treatment.

He added that he also assists with fracture management, provides medical advice, and supports emergency house calls and resuscitation efforts whenever possible.

“I consider this work important because the effectiveness of community safety organisations depends on the well-being and confidence of their personnel.”

He explained that while he cannot physically protect residents from crime, he can support those who dedicate themselves to protecting others.

For Du Toit, community service is about making a difference.

“To me, community service means uplifting the people within one’s immediate surroundings by offering assistance wherever possible. Through collective effort and a willingness to serve others, we can improve the quality of life for everyone within our community.”

He encouraged others to get involved in serving their communities, saying that even the smallest contribution can make a significant difference.

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