The van der Mescht family is appealing to the Newcastle community for urgent assistance after their son, Matayo, was robbed and stabbed 12 times on the morning of Saturday (November 11) in Barry Hertzog Park.
According to his mother, Karin, Matayo (20) and a friend were walking home when they were approached by an unknown man who asked them for cigarettes when they were attacked from behind by another unknown person.
A struggle ensued between the four of them leading to both Matayo and his friend being stabbed several times.
His friend sustained two minor stab wounds and a wrist fracture and is currently at home making a full recovery.
Matayo, however, sustained 12 stab wounds which are possibly life-threatening. He sustained injuries to an ear, in the back of his head, to his ribs and in his back which led him to also suffer a punctured lung.
He was immediately rushed to Mediclinic Newcastle where he had to undergo CT scans, X-rays, and a procedure to insert a tube into his lungs to help alleviate the excess air compressing his lungs.
The van der Mescht family has already exceeded all their funds through the extensive care Matayo needs, and is now appealing to the public to assist them cover the additional medical costs which are piling up on each passing day.
“We have already received some assistance from close friends and family, but there are still so many costs to cover. We have no other choice than to turn to our community for help now,” said an emotional Karin van der Mescht.
For those who are willing and able to make a contribution to Matayo’s medical costs, contributions can be made to the following account:
- Account holder: Mediclinic Newcastle
- Bank: ABSA
- Account number: 4069841875
- Branch Code: 632005
- Reference number: Matayo V.D. Mescht
If you would like any more information, you can contact Zianne Leibrandt at the Newcastle Advertiser offices on 034 312 6021.
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