Florida security cluster hold candlelit vigil for officer in ICU
“This is not only for Sagran but for all patients, nurses and doctors inside those walls.”
In times of hardship and strife, those with a shared humanity band together in a show of support and defiance.
Members of the Florida security cluster showed their heartfelt solidarity with a fellow brother fighting against Covid-19 on 28 January. Constable Sagran Pillay was admitted to Life Flora Hospital on 19 January and has since been placed on a ventilator. The 40-member wall of candlelight serves as a marker of the high esteem the Florida Police officer holds within the community.
Florida Police, Florida Community Policing Forum (CPF), ICE Community Policing and Emergency Control South Africa, among others, donned full uniforms and spent over 20 minutes in silent prayer and contemplation for Constable Pillay and his family. The moment of quiet reflection was not only for their friend, but for everyone throwing together their collective resources in the fight against Covid-19.
Sergeant Marcel Coutriers of the Johannesburg Flying Squad led proceedings and has spent 10 years alongside Constable Pillay in uniformed service. “This is not only for Sagran but for all patients, nurses and doctors inside those walls,” said Sergeant Coutriers, gesturing toward the illuminated Life Flora facility. “This is about making our presence felt through prayer, not to cause any disruption outside the hospital,” he continued.
Florida Police officers work hand in hand with community groups, non closer than the CPF. “We are all praying for him and wish him a speedy recovery. We pray for God to give his family strength and endurance, and we hope to see him back on the road doing what he does best. Also, a big thank you to the staff, nurses and management for doing the best they can,” said Florida CPF Chairman, Prashan Sukhu.
Whispers from inside the hospital are positive as messages sent out later in the evening describe Constable Pillay as ‘a fighter on the machine’ who was showing ‘positive energy’. Under the guided care of the expert health practitioners hope is that another uniformed hero can soon be reunited with his fellowship.
