SA Raises Over 100% for Animal Therapy Assistant Isaac's Stroke Recovery

Photo Credit: Animal Health & Hydro Cape Town

After suffering a stroke earlier this month, Isaac Imed has been met with an incredible show of kindness, thanks to almost 100 South Africans in his corner.

Cape Town, South Africa (22 July 2026) – The team at Cape Town’s Animal Health & Hydro help animals recover from injuries, surgeries and illness. One of their hard-working heroes is Isaac Imed, a therapy assistant and underwater treadmill operator who has committed the past 11 years to caring for animals and supporting their rehabilitation.

This month, however, it was Isaac who needed help. Isaac suffered a stroke on the evening of 5 July, but help only reached him the following morning. The delay left him with significant damage to the left side of his body.

Concerned for their friend and colleague, Isaac’s workplace launched an online crowdfunding campaign to help cover his medical and living expenses while he focuses on recovery.

“He is one of the kindest and most accomplished dog handlers in the practice, and all of the animals and their human companions adore him. His presence is missed on so many levels, and while he is unable to get back to the job he loves and the colleagues who love him, we want to raise some money towards his medical and living costs until he is back on his feet.” the campaign read.

The news of Isaac’s stroke, and his colleagues’ efforts to rally the support he needed, spread across South Africa. Just four days later, almost 100 supporters – many of whom had chosen to stay anonymous – had already pushed the fundraiser past its R50,000 goal, raising R59,690!

“THANK YOU so much to everyone who has contributed to Isaac’s BackaBuddy Campaign so far. We surpassed our target within 4-Days!” his workplace shared. “The outpouring of support has been truly incredible and we are so deeply touched by the love and kindness shown to our friend.”

Isaac is already showing small improvements, especially in his speech, though his recovery will take time. Thanks to the incredible people who stepped up for him, he won’t be facing his medical bills or day-to-day living costs alone.