Davey’s story of survival

TWENTY-five year old Davey du Plessis, an ex-Michaelhouse pupil, will present his riveting story of survival at Debbie Cameron’s Physiotherapy in Hillcrest on Saturday 19 October at 9.30am.

Davey du Plessis set off on a 6400km source-to-sea expedition down the Amazon on 1 July 2012. Two months and a third of the way in, he was attacked and left in the jungle to die.

The aim of his solo adventure entitled, The Amazon Project, was to draw attention to environmental issues and promote the concept of empowerment of the environment.

The epic journey included a three stage adventure, crossing the South American continent from East to West.

This consisted of a hike to the summit of the 18-000ft Mount Mismi, noted as the true source of the Amazon River; followed by an estimated 800km cycle through the Peruvian Andean Mountains; and a final 5700km paddle towards the Atlantic Ocean.

Two months into the journey, Davey was ambushed, shot and left for dead, putting an end to this dream. Despite not completing the project, Davey was left with an incredible story of survival.

According to physiotherapist Debbie Cameron, Davey, was the perfect choice for their annual event which focusses on inspiration and overcoming physical challenges.

“Myself, along with physiotherapists, Lynne Fairclough and Amanda Solomon are not only passionate about physiotherapy but equally passionate about helping people through physical difficulties whether from overuse, trauma or elective surgery. We take our inspiration from past patients who have experienced the triumph of the human spirit to overcome huge odds to a successful recovery – normal people who have found that the essence of life is precious and is not to be wasted,” said Debbie.

Tickets for this event are R80 and all proceeds go to The Reach for a Dream Foundation. Tickets are limited so contact Michelle on 031 765 8898 to book. Booking and payment is essential prior to the event.

Davey will also be promoting his newly launched book Choosing to Live.