South Africans came together in kindness for Alison Botha following her brain aneurysm, surgery and rehabilitation. In a recent update, Alison shares what her homecoming experience has been like and expresses immense gratitude for all the love that’s seen her through this tough time!
South Africa (07 February 2025) — Towards the end of last year, the ever-inspirational Alison Botha faced a significant feat after she suffered a brain aneurysm, which led to brain surgery and a lot of time in hospital. In a recent Alison update, she took to keep South Africa in the loop regarding her recovery, a beautiful message beaming with positivity, gratitude and her homecoming!
Reflecting on her time at a rehabilitation facility, Alison shared that it was valuable. It was filled with re-learning many ‘basics’, like how to make a cup of coffee, which becomes quite overwhelming when one’s brain is recovering from a huge hurdle.
Her physiotherapy helped her gain both strength and perspective. As Alison puts it beautifully:
“Just being able to stand up from a sitting position was a wonderful milestone”.
Alison spent over two months away from home, which made for a wonderful reunion with her animals and family in the comfort of her own space.
While her home got a slight makeover after inspection by the Occupational Therapist who cautioned her about tripping hazards, kindness reigned supreme as Alison received a visit from a well-wisher who donated their time and effort to help with some imperative upgrades like installing handrails.
This is one act in a sea of many who have supported Alison. In fact, her medical care costs wouldn’t have been possible if it hadn’t been for ‘Team Alison’ and everyone who donated funds to support her healing.
“I was pleasantly surprised to learn of the fund established by ‘Team Alison’ and will be forever grateful to them, and those of you who kindly and generously contributed to cover my medical expenses and to ensure a roof over my head. It allowed me to concentrate solely on my rehabilitation and recuperation.”
She adds:
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“I am slowly sifting through messages on social media and my phone—and am overwhelmed with the amount of love and care and concern that has poured in my/our direction.
“Your prayers and thoughts have reached me and have helped me to stay strong when it was so hard at times.
“Thank you—and please don’t stop. I appreciate all the love and support so much.”
Alison’s update concludes with the mention that she has returned back to the hospital due to a small brain bleed but that she hopes it’ll be a temporary situation.
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