LINDEN – JG Oosthuizen, would have started his final school year at Hoërskool Linden on 13 January, but is now facing a new battle to regain some mobility following a freak accident while playing in the waves at Diaz Beach near Mosselbay on 4 January.
Oosthuizen was doing back flips in the sea when his head hit a sand bank and his C5 vertebrea along with his spinal cord were badly injured. His brother, Bekker, was with him at the time and immediately assisted, as life guards, as well as a doctor rushed to attend to him.
Following initial tests in a Mosselbay hospital, Oosthuizen was transferred to Mediclinic George where a highly critical six-hour operation was performed. Though the operation was a success, Oosthuizen was certified as a C5 quadriplegic. He cannot use his legs and has limited movement from his shoulders.
Oosthuizen was airlifted to a Johannesburg medical facility on 14 January and was admitted to the Life Riverfield Lodge rehabilitation centre. Extensive support, both financial and on a more practical level would be required.
Accodring to his mother, Ezeth, Oosthuizen is bravely facing this mammoth challenge. Oosthuizen is a keen sportsman who played for his school’s 1st rugby team. He is loved not only by his close friends but also those beyond his school gate.
The school, together with the wider community launched a fundraising drive for Oosthuizen on 15 January, held at the school’s main rugby field.
Pupils, staff and parents all wore white and made donations to the JG Oosthuizen Fund, especially created to support him during this trying time.
Family friend, Pieter van der Merwe called on everyone to stand together in support of Oosthuizen, whether they are part of the school or not. He went on to explain that they can donate funds to assist the family to:
JG Oosthuizen
FNB Fluid Savings Account
Account number: 623 969 813 60
Branch: Hyde Park
Branch Code: 255 805
