Residents have rallied behind a Judith’s Paarl family following the death of their daughter, Gugulethu Nogwaja (12).
Western Kensington Resident’s Association (WKRA) residents were shocked after receiving a message about Gugulethu’s death and decided to help raise funds to contribute towards her funeral.
Gugulethu, who had cerebral palsy and epilepsy, died on Monday last week.
Her sister, Nonyameko Nogwaja (24), said Gugulethu was admitted to the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital a month ago.
“The doctor said she had flu, a chest infection and possible pneumonia. On June 17, she went back to the hospital to have a feeding tube inserted to help her eat. She was discharged on June 19,” said Ms Nogwaja.
She said she was alarmed her sister was admitted to hospital. She said on July 11, she took Gugulethu back to the hospital, as the tube that had been inserted was leaking.
“The doctor observed her and said the tube will have to be replaced and we came home. That night, she struggled to breathe,” said Ms Nogwaja.
She said on the night of her death, she noticed Gugulethu was drifting in and out of consciousness and her heart was beating slowly.
“I ran outside and asked for an ambulance to be called. The paramedics arrived with an oxygen tank, checked her and pronounced her dead,” said Ms Nogwaja.
She said her heart was broken by the news.
Mr Zola Dambula, the chairperson of the Jeppe SAPS Sector 1 Crime Forum and a neighbour, was one of the residents who called for an ambulance.
He rushed to Ms Nogwaja’s house and told the EXPRESS he was saddened by what had happened.
“I am a parent myself and I feel the pain of losing a child. This matter highlights the plight of many child-headed households in our communities. This issue does not receive the attention it deserves,” said Mr Dambula.
He said he was touched by the commitment Ms Nogwaja showed to her sister, despite being a child herself.
“She went everywhere with her. She would spend the night in hospital, looking after her while Gugulethu was going for treatment. She has been a real mother to her,” said Mr Dambula.
The family needed assistance with funeral arrangements and was unable to cover the costs.
Mr Dambula notified residents in WhatsApp groups about Gugulethu’s death and the circumstances. Residents immediately offered their assistance and by Thursday morning last week, R4 300 was raised.
“It was heart-warming to see the residents open their hearts and wallets to the bereaved family. The WKRA family really rallied together in a time of adversity. Sergeant Patrick Tefu, a sector manager at the Jeppe SAPS, was the first to pledge a donation. This shows real leadership. Messages of concern came from everyone in the area. This is really heart-warming,” said Mr Navin Bachu, from the WKRA.
Mr Dambula said he was grateful to all those who opened their hearts to donate.
“Words are not enough. I am truly honoured to work with them, organisations and individuals alike,” said Mr Dambula.
Anyone who wishes to offer the family assistance, can contact Mr Zola Dambula on 076 481 9561. @JoburgJourno
