Although it was sudden and unexpected, my grief was made easier with the kindness and understanding showed to me and my daughter, Emma (2), by the staff of the emergency room at the N17 hospital.
Although I didn’t get any of your names, I want to thank the nursing staff for all their help.
The nurses took Emma and kept her busy, buying her sweets and even a doll, while doctors explained to me what had happened to my husband and that they could not save him.
All the while, chaplains Bev and Sean Selkon, stood by me and helped me, explaining processes, and standing with me while I said goodbye to Stephan.
Although nothing can take away the pain that my family and I are going through, the staff at N17 and Bev and Sean helped make a traumatic experience a little less bad.
Thank you to each and every one of you.
Also, to the police officers and the two detectives, especially Detective Warrant Office Swart, who had to come in and interview me, as the cause of my husband’s death was unknown, thank you for your kindness.
Thank you also ut to the family and friends who stood by me and Emma during this time.
Although I know that there is a long and difficult road ahead of us, I can take it on knowing that I will not be doing it alone.
Natasha Kotze.
Eds note:
Natasha is a former Addie journalist and deputy editor of this newspaper, who worked closely with many of us.
She holds a place in the hearts of her former colleagues and we would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to her and Emma, and Stephan’s family, during this difficult period.
