Resident overcomes adversity

Grade 12 pupil Nikita Blaauw recently overcame great physical adversity and successfully exhibited her artwork at an art show held at Randpark High School.

Blaauw was recently involved in a quad bike accident which left her with very serious head injuries. She was rushed to hospital and spent several days in ICU. The doctor advised her that she would need to remain in hospital for several weeks, but Nikita was determined to recover as promptly as possible. Within a week she was resting at home and her speedy recovery surprised even her specialist physicians.

Blaauw spoke about her experience, describing it as a very challenging recuperation. “I am very fortunate to have survived and recovered so fast,” she said.

Blaauw was tasked with completing her art portfolio which was due to be returned to the school within a specified time frame. These deadlines were set prior to her accident. She decided that her accident was not going to affect her academic performance and she was determined to complete her portfolio.

As a result Blaauw spent hours painting and completing her drawings during her stay in hospital and at home. “If it wasn’t for my family and friends supporting me all of the way during my recovery I would not be where I am today with my health and my art,” she said.