Saving Brian’s life: We are still knocking on every door
Brian’s story is being shared in the hope that the right doctor sees it and steps in to help.
Responses are beginning to pour in following a desperate appeal to save the life of wheelchair-bound Brian Boynton.
Brian, who has used a wheelchair since a serious car accident in 2016, is fighting a battle for survival against an infection eating away at his spine.
The infection originated from severe pressure sores and has destroyed much of his L4, L5 and S1 vertebrae.
The extent of the condition became clear during a recent procedure, when the surgeon expressed shock after discovering the infection had destroyed Brian’s lower spinal column.
“I do not want to die,” said Brian. “I am confused and sad because I do not understand why God is doing this to my body.”
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Search for specialists
Following his discharge, Brian’s sister-in-law, Chantelle Boynton, sent his medical records and CT scans to more than 70 specialists, hospitals and health organisations.
“We are praying that Brian’s story reaches the right person,” said Chantelle.
“Some have escalated Brian’s case or forwarded his information directly to specialists. A Cape Town neurosurgeon personally contacted us after reviewing the case. Although he advised that Brian needs an orthopaedic specialist, he gave us valuable guidance and recommended two excellent doctors – both of whom I had fortunately already contacted,” she said.
She said Brian is scheduled for wound-closure and reconstructive surgery at Steve Biko Academic Hospital on October 29, though this will not treat the underlying infection.
“Our biggest priority remains finding an orthopaedic or spinal specialist willing to assess Brian sooner,” she added. “We cannot sit back and wait another two and a half months.”
National support
Chantelle said Brian now has a live-in private nurse, and the wound specialist is happy with the progress of his wounds.
“Thank you for every donation, prayer, share, message and contact. Brian is incredibly touched knowing that strangers across South Africa have opened their hearts to help him,” said Chantelle.
She asked that everyone keep sharing Brian’s story; the right doctor may be one share away.
‘Mom, I don’t want to die!’ – heartbreaking words no mom wants to hearhttps://t.co/hF6NRqrVs3 @WitbankN #BrianBoynton #savebrianslife #community #backabuddy pic.twitter.com/0wIgtY57g3
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) August 7, 2026
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