VRYHEID KZN: Sammy fights her brutal battles like a champ

Samantha Hayes, better known as Sammy or Sam, is a 46-year-old mother who has had to endure more in a short period of time than some experience in a lifetime. Sam is a well-known face in Vryheid, as most people know this spontaneous and brave woman who works in the catering department of AbaQulusi Super Spar. She always has a moment to talk to a customer or to help those who are near and dear to her. Sammy’s problems started 21 years ago when she had a difficult birth with her only child. After childbirth, Sammy’s body went into shock and not long after, she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Sammy fell ill recently and it was discovered that she had an enlarged heart and that four of the veins were clogged. After discovering a tiny sore (wet and dry gangrene) on her one foot, another sore was discovered on the other one as well. Little did she know that this would lead to both her legs being amputated in a period of five months. The one leg was initially amputated under the knee, but unfortunately it had to be amputated again (above the knee) due to complications. All three of these amputations occurred with only a spinal block anaesthetic, because her heart is not strong enough. This was an extremely emotional and traumatic experience for her, since she was able to hear the saw, smell the burning flesh and see how her leg was discarded into a bag; this is more than anyone should have to endure. The last amputation was a few weeks ago, before she had to return to hospital to have a double heart bypass.

After these amputations, they leave the wound open, which is called a ‘shark’ wound (no stitches). The one leg’s wound is still in the process of closing before the option of prosthetics can be considered, which brings with it another set of problems to the table. Sammy’s legs have been amputated at different lengths, which will make it difficult to find the correct prosthetics for her. On top of that, she needs a special wheelchair; her house has to be reconverted into a wheelchair-friendly home and the medical bills are piling up. Sammy’s medical aid only covers certain expenses and tests, which leaves her to pay for the rest. She is unable to work at the moment, even though her employer goes the extra mile to accommodate her situation.
Elize Tschirpig, who is like a second mother to Samantha, took the initiative to host a fund-raising golf day on December 11. “We understand that all individuals and businesses are currently experiencing economic constraints, and we would like to thank you in advance for your consideration. Any sponsorship in the form of prizes or funds would be greatly appreciated and you are welcome to contact me for more information or to make arrangements,” pleads Zuzanne Schoeman on behalf of her daughter, Sammy. Anyone willing to contribute or who wants to be a sponsor can contact Zuzanne on 072 471 6091 / 082 853 2003 or Elize on 073 063 5499.
Anyone who wants to contribute to Sammy’s medical expenses can use the following banking details: SI Hayes, Tyme Bank, Account Number 51037245688, Branch Code 678910.
A recent update from the hospital indicated that Sammy is in good spirits, even though she is still in a lot of pain and discomfort. She was moved from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to High Care on Monday. This is a young woman who keeps on fighting… She carries courage in her eyes and bravery in her smile, regardless of what life throws her way. She is an inspiration to not only her friends, family and locals, but to the community at large…

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