Patient Stories
Sharing personal experiences. Bringing insight!
Providing a platform for patients’ and families to articulate their experiences, whether through testimonials, narratives or case studies serves to help others gain a deeper understanding of the impact of illness or injury on people’s lives beyond clinical parameters.
Sharing personal experiences offers invaluable insights into the real-life journeys, challenges and triumphs of individuals navigating their medical conditions.
RECENTLY ADDED STORY
After a devastating road accident, my 12-year-old daughter, Nina, has made an incredible recovery, thanks to the support of a dedicated team. Following life-saving surgeries by Prof Frank Plani and Dr. Katheryn Monteith at Netcare Alberton Hospital, Nina was transferred to Netcare Rehabilitation Hospital. There, Dr. Anrie Carstens and a multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapist Charne Cox, worked tirelessly to help Nina regain her strength and abilities. Nurse Namile Ndlhangamandla formed a close bond with Nina, creating a warm, supportive environment. Through creative therapies like aquatherapy and fishing games, Nina progressed from being unable to walk to thriving again. Our family and friends, especially my best friend Mizaan and the Crusaders Motorcycle Club, provided immense support. Today, Nina is walking unaided, attending a neurodiverse school, and even excelling in disabled angling competitions. I’m incredibly proud and grateful for everyone who helped Nina on her journey.
I’m Dr. Nomthandazo Dube, a Specialist Neurosurgeon, and I want to share my journey fighting COVID-19, a battle that forever changed me. Initially, I brushed off symptoms like fatigue, attributing them to my hectic schedule. However, as my condition worsened, landing me in the hospital, I faced a harsh reality. Plunged into a coma for almost three weeks, I endured kidney failure, collapsed lungs, diabetes, and pulmonary emboli. Awakening in ICU, I embarked on a gruelling rehabilitation journey, determined to reclaim my life and profession. Despite setbacks, including a return to ICU, I pressed on, supported by the dedicated team at Rehab @ Muelmed. Finally, in October 2020, I achieved my goal of walking unaided out of the hospital, a testament to my resilience and the unwavering support I received.
#GREATERTHANSTROKE>>>
I’m Prenusha Somaroo, and my life took an unexpected turn despite its seemingly perfect trajectory. From excelling in school to climbing the career ladder and starting a family, I felt blessed with a loving husband, a beautiful baby girl, and a fulfilling career as a Credit Manager in Sandton. However, on an ordinary day in August 2020, while still on maternity leave, I experienced a stroke that altered everything. Thanks to my aunt’s quick action, I received timely medical attention, revealing a frontal infarction. My journey through rehabilitation was daunting, relearning basic tasks and grappling with newfound limitations. The support of my therapists and family was invaluable, guiding me through dark moments and celebrating small victories. Despite setbacks and the challenges of the pandemic, I persevered, returning to work and driving again. This journey reshaped my perspective, teaching me resilience, the importance of asking for help, and cherishing life’s blessings every day.
I’m Fanus Schoonees, an electronic engineer, whose life took a drastic turn after a motorcycle accident in October 2019. Suffering multiple fractures and a diffuse brain injury, I endured a long recovery process. Weeks in ICU, followed by months at Rehab @ Muelmed, both inpatient and outpatient, became my new reality. The brain injury left me with communication difficulties, hearing loss, and physical impairments, posing challenges for my return to work. Gratefully, my supportive employer accommodated my needs, allowing flexible hours and work-from-home options. Collaborating with my therapy team, we devised strategies like work hardening and assistive tools to facilitate my triumphant return. Despite ongoing challenges, including reliance on teletherapy and the Gautrain due to travel limitations, I remain committed to my career and continued growth.
My name is Chanel Fourie, and my life took an unexpected turn on March 1, 2014, at the age of 18. A devastating car accident left me with a T12 complete spinal cord injury, altering my life forever. I spent 23 days in ICU, battling severe injuries alongside the support of Dr. F Theron. Transferred to Rehab@Muelmed on March 23, 2014, I faced a whirlwind of emotions—anger, fear, and heartbreak. Despite the challenges, with the unwavering love of my family, I navigated through three months of intense rehabilitation. Returning to school proved challenging, but I persevered, completing Grade 12 and later earning a diploma in journalism and media. Today, I embrace life fully, pursuing adventures, driving independently, and cherishing moments with my husband and daughter. Despite the hardships, life has surprised me with unexpected blessings.
I’m Danielle Fourie, a high school Computer Application Technology teacher from Tzaneen. Married for five years, our plans for starting a family in 2021 were abruptly interrupted by a devastating motorcycle accident on October 18, 2020. In a coma for weeks, my recovery at Rehab @ Muelmed was a demanding journey. Supported by my resilient husband, therapists, and nurses, I pushed through physical and emotional challenges. From relearning to walk to regaining speech, each small victory reaffirmed my resilience. As I continue to heal, I’m filled with gratitude for the unwavering support that sustains me and the newfound strength that propels me forward towards reclaiming my life.
“…these people might not have the prestige or seek recognition for what they do, but they are honestly changing people’s lives. ”
#GREATERTHANSTROKE>>>
I’m Pierre Stoop, and my life changed dramatically one September evening in 2020. After watching TV, I woke up feeling thirsty and unable to swallow properly. As a financial advisor, I tried to record a voice note for my uncle but couldn’t speak coherently. Concerned, my family rushed me to the hospital, where I was diagnosed with a stroke and aphasia. Determined to recover, I underwent therapy and rehabilitation, learning to communicate and regain my independence. Despite setbacks, including being unable to return to work or drive for months, I persevered. With the support of my therapists, family, and faith, I made significant progress. I returned to work in May 2021, grateful for the miracles and hard work that brought me to where I am today.
On a December morning in 2016, our lives were forever altered by an accident that halted everything. Preparing for the last day of school and work before a holiday, I witnessed my son, Adriaan, fall from the car, triggering a sequence of events that would define our journey. Rushing him to the hospital, we clung to hope amidst the critical condition he faced, his life hanging in the balance. Weeks passed in a blur of prayers, hospital visits, and uncertain prognosis. Adriaan’s resilience, coupled with the unwavering support of family and medical staff, led us to Rehab@Muelmed in January 2017. There, against all odds, Adriaan defied expectations, reclaiming the ability to walk, talk, and thrive. Though challenges persist, his indomitable spirit and God’s grace continue to guide us. Today, Adriaan embodies resilience, a beacon of hope and a testament to the miracles that grace our lives. Through prayer, perseverance, and unwavering belief, we’ve emerged stronger, forever grateful for the journey that brought us here.
#GREATERTHANSTROKE>>>
My name is Sinah Mashifane, and my stroke journey began in November 2022 at the age of 55. Before the stroke, dizziness overwhelmed me, leading to my hospitalization. I had no prior knowledge of strokes. During my two-month hospital stay, rehabilitation started, including physiotherapy and speech therapy.
Now, I continue therapy at Rita Henn & Partners (RHP Rehab-Muelmed). Despite aphasia from the stroke, my speech therapist, Inge Odendaal, guides my steady progress. Some days are tougher, but support groups and therapy sessions help. Nearly a year later, I’ve regained independence, finding joy in everyday tasks. Grateful for my journey, I thank the therapists who’ve stood by me.
“…I’m back on my feet, attending school, and exceeding expectations…”
I’m Demi Blaauw, and I want to share my journey of recovery after experiencing a life-threatening brain haemorrhage at the age of 12. It all started when I collapsed unexpectedly due to a congenital vascular condition, which led to a burst arteriovenous malformation in my brain.
Initially, I couldn’t speak, understand, or move my right side. The road to recovery seemed daunting, but with the support of my family and the dedicated rehabilitation team, I started making progress. Through intensive therapy and the care of specialists like Dr. Pradeep Rowji, I regained my speech and mobility.
Now, a year later, I’m back on my feet, attending school, and exceeding expectations. It’s been a challenging journey, but with determination and the right medical attention, I’ve made incredible strides toward independence. I’m proof that with the right help, people can overcome the toughest obstacles.
I’m Dirick Njela, and my life took a drastic turn when I was shot in the right side of my head during an attempted hijacking on October 15, 2020. Rushed to Life Wilgers Hospital in Pretoria East, I underwent treatment by Dr. Steyn, a neurosurgeon, for the gunshot wound. On October 28, I was transferred to Rehab @ Muelmed, facing uncertainty compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, which barred visitors. Despite the isolation, the compassionate rehab team, led by Dr. Terry, provided invaluable support. Initially paralysed on my left side, I found hope and progress through therapists like Shirley and Refilwe, achieving significant milestones such as walking and climbing stairs. With occupational therapist Marisel’s guidance, I regained independence in daily tasks and even contemplated new career paths. Discharged shortly before Christmas, I continue my rehabilitation journey with determination, following a structured home exercise program and attending regular physiotherapy sessions.
#GREATERTHANSTROKE>>>
I’m Albrecht, and my life took an unexpected turn one evening. As a healthy and active farmer, I never imagined I’d have a stroke. Confused and unable to move my arms, I ended up in the hospital, facing a daunting journey ahead. A brain scan revealed a bleed deep within my brain, leading to a high-risk surgery and months of hospitalisation. Ventilated in ICU, I faced uncertainty until slowly regaining independence with the help of dedicated therapists and medical professionals. Transferred to Rehab @ Muelmed, I embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation journey, learning to stand and walk again. Through faith and the support of others, I found strength in adversity, realising the importance of humility and relying on others. Despite unanswered questions, I choose to focus on God’s goodness and the opportunity to make a difference in others’ lives.
My name is Louisa Bamuza, and my battle with Pott’s disease began unexpectedly in 2019, leaving me paralysed from the waist down. After surgery and intensive rehab at Rehab@Muelmed, I celebrated small victories like standing on my birthday. Supported by fellow patients and therapists, I persevered, regaining mobility with crutches. Returning home, I adapted to a new routine and gradually resumed work amid the pandemic. Today, I walk independently, drive, and work with renewed strength and gratitude. My journey taught me the power of perseverance and a positive mindset. I hope to inspire others to never give up, knowing that with determination, anything is possible.
My name is Wihann Slabbert, and my life took an unexpected turn when a rare illness struck my nervous system at the age of 20. Within days, I went from being an active sportsman to relying on a wheelchair for mobility. Losing my independence was a tough adjustment—I couldn’t even perform basic tasks without help.
This experience gave me a newfound appreciation for people living with physical disabilities. It’s opened my eyes to the challenges they face daily. While my time in a wheelchair was temporary, I admire those who navigate life with permanent mobility limitations.
Following my diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome, I spent weeks in hospital and underwent intensive rehabilitation at Rehab@Muelmed. The support and care I received were invaluable, helping me maintain a positive outlook on my recovery journey.
I’m Ntsako Mathebula, a 34-year-old SA Police Service officer. On a regular Spring morning in 2022, I set out on patrol, not knowing it would be my last day walking on my own. A sudden encounter with robbers left me with a bullet wound in my back, causing severe injuries, including irreversible spinal cord damage.
Dr. Aneesa Khan detailed the extent of my injuries, which not only affected my spine but also penetrated my small intestine. Despite surgeries to address abdominal injuries, the damage to my spine was permanent. I remember praying to God, grateful to be alive despite the pain and inability to feel my legs.
Rehabilitation has been challenging, involving a multidisciplinary team. Physiotherapist Trinesh Baroon commended my determination, noting how my resilience could inspire others facing similar challenges. Despite the emotional toll, I remain hopeful and determined to make a difference, eager to return to work in an administrative role.