Respected karate teacher hospitalised

Randfontein’s famous karate teacher, Shihan Ken Wittstock, who is in his 70s, is currently very ill in the Life Robinson Private Hospital.

The Herald was informed on Friday, 9 December that Ken, who has lived his entire life in Randfontein had been transferred to the Life Robinson hospital on Thursday, 8 December. He was previously hospitalised at the Leratong Hospital and allegedly in two other state hospitals.

At the moment, Ken is in Robinson’s High Care unit, where reports are still awaited from a doctor before it can be established what his condition is.

Evanda Jansen van Rensburg, who is a Randfontein resident and one of Ken’s former students, told the Herald she’d been informed that Ken cannot walk and has bladder problems. She added when he was in the State hospital he was apparently screaming from the pain.

As Ken does not appear to be a member of any medical aid, the cost of getting him proper treatment at Robinson Hospital is huge – to be able to keep him in Robinson Hospital, his family needs about R40 000.

According to Evanda, this amount will cover the cost of the High Care unit, and the scans and x-rays that need to be done, with very little left for any other expenses. There is also a chance that he will have to be transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, which will cost even more.

Evanda told the Herald that they are humbly asking the community to please help raise funds to cover Ken’s hospital costs.

“Even if your donation is just R10 – every cent will help,” she said.

Ken started his karate career at the age of 20. He is one of SA JKA’s founding fathers, and has been an active instructor at his Randfontein Dojo in Kenneth Avenue, which has been running for 42 years. He represented South Africa as a Springbok at the World All Styles Championships, where he achieved joint 4th place. He also holds the qualifications of an A-class instructor, examiner and judge. These examinations can only be taken in Japan and Ken has achieved the highest qualifications possible. Ken has also travelled to Germany every second year since 1973, to instruct in various areas.

As this is the season of giving, Evanda is requesting the community to open their hearts and help Ken and his family through the difficulties they are facing.

Anyone who wants to make a contribution can contact Evanda on 062 255 7321.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 693 3671.

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