RICHARDS Bay teen accident survivor Carina du Plessis is back home and on her feet after four weeks of therapy.
Carina (19), who was involved in a serious accident in Richards Bay in November last year sustained major injuries including severe brain injuries, fractured collar bone and shoulder blade, broken ribs that bruised her left lung, shattered spinal vertebra – upper and lower back -and a fractured jaw.
She was immediately taken to Netcare The Bay Hospital where she lay in a coma for five weeks, however made a miraculous recovery.
‘There was only confused talking and no memory when she woke up,’ said her mother Erika, who has been by her side every step of the journey.
‘She called everybody monkey and became the hospital’s beloved monkey.’
After spending Christmas day with her family, Carina was transferred to Entabeni Rehabilitation Centre in Durban where she underwent four weeks of therapy, working with physiotherapists and occupational and speech therapists on a daily basis.
Carina is now back on her feet and walking without assistance. She can read and write and help herself with basics tasks.
‘Her body recovered very well but it will take quite some time for the brain to heal,’ said Erika. ‘She lost her short term memory which may take months to heal. At the moment she will need full time supervision at home.’
‘We are very grateful for all the people who supported us since Carina’s accident,’ said Erika, ‘All the messages and prayers for Carina meant a lot to us. We experienced God’s love and grace every day since she was in hospital. It is a miracle in itself for her getting out alive from that car wreck.’
Carina will be returning to Entabeni Rehabilitation Centre for assessments in six months but will continue with therapy and exercises at home.
