LIFE rapidly changed for Amanzimtoti technician, Craig Merredew, 59, after a nasty fall while on the job in Johannesburg led to him losing the lower half of his leg.

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His family is now desperately seeking funds for a prosthetic leg so he can get back to work and provide for the household.

Craig said that while up on a ladder, he missed one of the rungs when his boot slipped, causing him to fall.

“The fall damaged one of the veins. It was sore for about a day or two and I did not think much of it, but one day, while getting ready for work, my toe appeared dark and discoloured. I was admitted in a public hospital for about two months. Doctors were in and out, but nobody really saw me. They would take a look and disappear thereafter. Eventually, they said ‘The toe’s got to come off’ due to gangrene.”

Midway through last year, the leg had to be amputated as the gangrene had spread up the limb.

Loss of independence

His doting wife, Kim Merredew, started a BackABuddy fundraiser for her husband so that he can walk again and regain his independence before he turns 60 in March next year. She said that unfortunately, the waiting period for a prosthesis is up to five years.

“It is frustrating because sometimes it feels like I can stand on two legs due to phantom limb syndrome. I had quite a few falls because of this,” said Craig.

Phantom limb syndrome occurs because the brain continues to send and receive signals from the missing limb as it tries to adapt.

“It’s difficult getting around. I can only walk so far on one leg before it hurts too much. I took for granted all that I was able to do with two working legs, because even simple tasks like making a cup of coffee or reheating food is far more difficult and time consuming due to my limited mobility. I often have to rely on a wheelchair and hope that someone is able to help along the way. I served in the military from 1984 to 1986 and took a knock to the right knee, so even with prosthesis, I know I won’t be able to do what I could before amputation, but I hope in the future to find work,” said Craig.

With regards to income, the Merredew family have had to adjust to the lack of Chris’ salary, and the burden has fallen onto Kim. Craig said it hurts more than anything that he can no longer contribute properly.

“I am thankful to have amazing people around me that help so much. My daughter Ciane has been home for three months, and our neighbours and friends, Barry and Gaynor Simpson, have been a great help. They assisted with my crutches and a wheelchair, of which I am grateful for,” said Craig.

The cost of a prosthetic leg is about R80 000, which the family cannot afford without community assistance. Should you wish to contribute towards the prosthesis, use the following banking details: Account holder: KC Merredew, Capitec Savings Account number: 1458820996, reference: Craig. Alternatively, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-craig-get-s-prosthetic-lower-leg or contact Kim Merredew on 062 411 4423.

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