FOLLOW-UP: Mom recovering after dog attack
The Brentwood Park mother’s fighting spirit is steadily carrying her to recovery.
“If I had to do it again, I would not hesitate.”
These are the words of Linda Venter (37) just before undergoing her sixth surgical procedure in two weeks since being admitted to the Netcare Union Hospital in Alberton.
The Brentwood Park mother of three was airlifted to the medical facility on August 29 when she used her body to shield her son, Brayden (11), after their beloved family pet Zeus turned on the boy, viciously attacking him.
Linda suffered severe injuries to her legs and abdomen while her right arm had to be amputated during an emergency operation.
On September 4, following an extensive examination, she was deemed stable and doctors started the process of rousing her from a medically induced coma, merely six days following the attack.
“Linda has demonstrated stubborn determination and graceful resilience in the past couple of days,” said Philip Stoneman, chaplain for Trauma Support SA and Venter’s brother-in-law.
“She knows that the road that lies ahead will be challenging but her primary focus is to get home to Maruis, her husband and their sons, Brendan (14), Brayden and Brian (4).
“On September 12, she was once again scheduled to go to the theatre during which the wounds on her legs would be tended to and the wound on her arm would be systematically stitched.”
Stoneman said that Brayden is doing well at home.
“He is now under the care of medical professionals at a wound clinic and he seems to be healing well,” he said.
“Laerskool Rynfield has been incredibly supportive and will provide him with his school work to ensure that he does not fall behind.”
According to Stoneman, every member of the Venter family is in good spirits. However, counselling is still being provided to ensure that they can adequately come to terms with the ordeal.
“I am overwhelmed by the tremendous support we have received from friends, family, members of the community and strangers whom we have not had the privilege to meet,” said Linda.
“Your prayers and words of encouragement have carried us through a very traumatic incident, which has given us the courage to persevere. Thank you for your love and care.”
With medical expenses mounting a BackaBuddy campaign has been registered.
Although the Venters have an existing hospital plan, it is not yet clear if all the medical costs as well as rehabilitation will be covered.
It is estimated that R175 000 is needed to cover any shortfalls.
To pledge your support log on to www.backabuddy.co.za/linda-venter-5694114255913642754.
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