Family’s plea to get Shepard back on his feet
The family is grateful for the support of Fourways residents after donating towards the medical bills of Shepard Mpofu, who risks losing his leg.
Fourways residents have shown that their love and care have no bounds as they rally around a Diepsloot family seeking help in raising money for the surgery of Shepard Mpofu.
His sister, Memory Mpofu, said the 24-year-old was involved in a devastating incident which left him with severe injuries, including a broken leg, last year in December.
She said an undiagnosed mental illness, which has left the family reeling in shock, was the root cause of the incident.
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“At the time, doctors attended to his mental state first because of how severe it is. He needed to be stabilized first before they could do anything.”
She said even though her brother has made good progress in his recovery, and is stable now, he is not able to provide for himself because he is unable to work as a result.
“We have since been back to the same hospital for the surgery, which can only take place if we raise the amount of R30 000 as quoted. My brother risks losing his leg if we are unable to come up with the amount needed.”
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The family has seen glimmers of hope in Mpofu’s recovery, and they’re determined to get him back on his feet.
However, the financial burden is overwhelming, and they’re begging for the community’s help to make this possible.
“Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us closer to saving Shephard’s leg. We’re forever grateful for any support during this dark time,” Memory appeals.
Mpofu’s journey highlights the importance of mental health awareness and support. His family had no idea he was struggling with a mental illness until the incident happened.
“We’re learning as we go, and we want to help others who may be facing similar challenges.”
Preveshen Naidoo, who is Memory’s employer, posted in the I love Fourways community group chat to ask Fourways residents for support, and they did exactly that, the money now sitting at R23 166.
“The community’s response has been heartwarming, with some offering words of encouragement and others pledging financial support. However, more help is still needed to reach the target.
“We’re not just fighting for Shephard’s leg; we’re fighting for his future,” said Naidoo.
Memory added, “we’re grateful for every prayer, every message, and every contribution. We can’t do this alone.”
The family also pleads for anyone who has experienced similar challenges to come forward and share their stories.
“We want to create a support network for those affected by mental illness. To donate to Mpofu’s BackaBuddy, please visit Backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-us-get-shephard-back-on-his-feet.”
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