South Africans are being called to send love and uplifting messages to 12-year-old Harry, the sole survivor of a tragic car accident, to help him heal through the power of community support.
South Africa (08 September 2024) – When heartache hits, South Africans are never far from one another. In times of crisis, our spirit of unity and compassion rises above, transforming sorrow into a powerful support force. Today, our nation is being called upon to channel that spirit of kindness and love for a young soul-survivor named Harry, who needs our encouragement more than ever.
Recently, a tragic social media post by Sarah Corlett has begun circulating, capturing hearts nationwide. In her heartfelt post, Sarah shared the devastating story of the Finnemore family — Gareth, Olivia, and their two sons, Garth and Harry.
Last Saturday, their lives were forever changed when a driver allegedly overtook a truck on a blind rise along a rural road in KwaZulu-Natal, causing a catastrophic accident that involved 13 people. Twelve did not survive, including Gareth, Olivia, and 14-year-old Garth. Miraculously, 12-year-old Harry emerged as the sole survivor.
The news of this unimaginable loss has struck a chord, prompting an outpouring of love and compassion. People from near and far have rallied to support Harry, who is still recovering in the hospital. Amidst the heartbreak, a beautiful moment of kindness has already touched Harry’s life — a message from South African rugby star Jesse Kriel, which, according to Sarah, “really boosted his spirits.”
Inspired by Jesse’s gesture, Sarah reached out to us at Good Things Guy with a heartfelt plea: “Brent, I need your help, please! Harry received a message from Jesse Kriel, and it brought a smile to his face. He’s still in ICU, but he’s going to be okay. However, the road ahead is tough. His mom’s sister, Lexi, mentioned that any messages from cricket and rugby players would be amazing, but honestly, I think it doesn’t have to be just celebrities. Imagine what a few heartfelt messages from anyone could do for a 12-year-old boy facing such unimaginable pain. I’d love to get a few messages to him.”
Sarah’s request is a call to all of us. Yes, messages from celebrities can be uplifting, but the truth is that each of us has the power to make an impact. Whether you are a world-famous athlete or an everyday hero, your words of support can bring light to Harry in this dark time.
So, we’re asking you — our incredible Good Things Guy community — to do what you do best: send your love, encouragement, and strength to Harry. Write something meaningful and show this young South African that he is not alone, that there is a whole nation standing with him, cheering him on as he heals both physically and emotionally.
While nothing can truly fill the void left by the loss of Harry’s parents and brother, the collective support from people around the country and the world can help to ease his pain, one kind word at a time. Together, let’s wrap Harry in a blanket of love and support. Let’s remind him that there are countless people who care, countless hearts that are holding space for him. In moments like these, our strength as a community shines the brightest. So, take a moment today, write a message, and be a part of something truly special.
Remember, it doesn’t take a celebrity to make a difference. It takes a human being with a heart full of compassion.
Leave a message in the comments or send one to messagesforharry@gmail.com. We will make sure all messages are sent to Sarah to deliver to Harry.
“To Harry, with love from the Good Things Guy team, while the path ahead may feel difficult and uncertain, please remember that you are not walking it alone. Thousands of hearts are reaching out to you, filled with love, prayers, and gentleness. We’re all here, holding you in our thoughts. Know that an entire country is lifting you up, surrounding you with care, and sending you all the warmth and comfort it has to give.”
South Africa, let’s rally together, one message at a time. Let’s show Harry just how powerful love and kindness can be.
by 
Hey Harry,
Hang in there, little man.
We can do “hard things” knowing that we have love from even strangers to help us pull through.
Love and gentle hugs. XOXO
From a grandmother in Greyton,Western Cape.
Hello Harry,
… reading the Good Things Guy article … and now I am thinking of you in your bed in the hospital and how small you might possibly feel.
There are no words to make it all better hey?!
Just know that I send love from my heart to yours, BIG love with BIG hugs.
Take it one moment at a time and know that so many people send you BIG love.
Sally – from a little dorpie in the Karoo, Western Cape