Saving Brian’s life
After surviving a skydiving accident and a fatal car crash, a paralysed man now faces a critical battle against a severe spinal infection.
The words, “I just need a little more time,” echo through the air.
For Brian Boynton, who is fighting for his life without the safety net of medical aid, this is a desperate plea for help.
Brian, who is paralysed, has developed pressure sores.
Despite months of specialised care, the wounds will not heal. When Brian became severely anaemic, his wound-care specialist realised something more serious was happening and referred him to hospital.
After his admission to Life Cosmos Hospital, doctors discovered that the infection had invaded his lower back, surrounding muscle and pelvis, and destroyed much of his L4, L5 and S1 vertebrae.
An emergency operation followed, during which doctors removed dead and infected tissue.
Brian’s sister-in-law, Chantelle Boynton, said he now requires highly specialised spinal surgery to remove infected bone, stop the infection from spreading and stabilise his spine.
“These surgeries will not restore Brian’s ability to walk again, because his paralysis is permanent. Instead, it offers something more precious, the chance to save his life. Without treatment, the infection will continue to spread, and this could lead to his death,” Chantelle said.
Brian’s mom, Sonja le Roux, said watching her son slowly dying is the biggest burden she has ever had to carry.
“We are helpless. My son is lying in the room, slowly losing his grip on life. I prayed, I pleaded and spent hours asking God why, just like any mother would. But I know God has a greater plan. He is in control; He is the one who holds tomorrow,” Sonja said.
Tears ran down her cheek and the knuckles on her fingers turned white as she clenched her fists and said, “I cannot let Brian die. I cannot let go of my faith and I will not stop praying.”
The family is seeking more medical advice from doctors, and know they need to raise R2m for Brian’s ongoing care.
“The road ahead includes an extended hospital stay, specialist surgery, medication, ongoing wound care, rehabilitation and recovery. We humbly ask for your support,” Chantelle said.
“Our prayer is that these surgeries will save Brian’s life and allow him many more years with us. Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a difference. If you are unable to donate, we completely understand. Please consider sharing Brian’s story and keeping him in your prayers.”
Brian made headlines on April 6, 2014, when he had a skydiving accident while landing under a fully functional canopy.
READ MORE Young man lucky to be alive
He had just completed an eight-way formation free-fall jump from 3 300m when the accident occurred.
He was treated for multiple broken bones, but was still able to walk after leaving the hospital
Two years later, Brian was involved in a car crash that left him paralysed.
He and a friend, Donovan Roberts, were on their way to Kosi Bay on June 14, 2016, when the wheel of Donovan’s Land Cruiser came off.
The vehicle tipped on its side, skidding along until it came to a halt against a tree. Donovan died at the scene, while Brian spent months in hospital.
“I don’t know why this is happening to me. I am trying to stay strong, but in my head I am fighting wordless battles,” Brian lamented. “Mom, please tell the doctors I am dying; I need help.”
To contribute to Brian’s medical care, visit backabuddy.co.za/campaign/stand-with-brian-in-the-fight-for-his-life.
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