Standerton man appeals for help after surviving brutal hijacking
Two years after Bareng Mabiletsa was shot twice in the face, basic functions such as eating, speaking and smiling are an agonising daily struggle.
Every time Bareng Mabiletsa tries to eat or looks in the mirror, he is reminded of the day he almost died at the hands of a hijacker.
This 34-year-old man from Sakhile is appealing for financial and medical assistance after surviving the brutal attempted hijacking in the Johannesburg Central Business District in August 2024.
He was left with life-altering facial injuries. Mabiletsa was shot twice in the face during the attack. He was rushed to hospital, where he spent a week receiving treatment.
Although he is grateful to have survived, he has been left with severe damage to his jaw, facial structure and teeth, making everyday activities extremely difficult.
“As a result of the shooting, basic daily functions such as eating, speaking and smiling have become an agonising daily struggle for me,” said Mabiletsa.
He explained that medical specialists have advised that he urgently requires several reconstructive procedures, including orthognathic (jaw realignment) surgery, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction, facial reconstructive surgery and dental implant rehabilitation.
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“My greatest wish is to have my face reconstructed because even now it is difficult for me to swallow food. I use a straw to drink and eat,” said Mabiletsa.
Mabiletsa said the cost of the life-changing surgeries is far beyond what he can afford.
“The financial burden of these essential procedures exceeds my current means. I am determined to recover, live free of pain and return to fully providing for my family, but I cannot do it without help,” he said.
He is appealing to organisations, businesses, charitable foundations and members of the public to assist with financial support or sponsorship for his medical treatment.
A Backabuddy to help Mabiletsa get the reconstructive surgery he needs has been opened.
Anyone willing to assist can contribute to this account, or contact Mabiletsa on 076 277 4484 or email bomabiletsa@gmail.com
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