Update: 'Vernon Koekemoer' Crowdfund Reaches R100,000 Target!
Photo Cred: Supplied

A week later, and we have the BEST update! The crowdfunding campaign set up to help Vernon Koekemoer has just reached its target of R100,000!!!

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (11 October 2022) – In just six days, South Africa has collectively donated over R100,000 to the crowdfunding campaign to assist Cassie Booyse, better known as Vernon Koekemoer with his tragic health struggles.

The 66-year-old South African, who currently lives in Boksburg, is fighting for his life following three failed hip operations at Tambo Memorial Hospital. His fiance, Linda, says the only thing that can save him is a miracle, and that miracle could just be the kindness of strangers.

Vernon’s health struggles began in 2018 when he began experiencing pain in his right hip due to advanced arthritis. Without medical aid, Vernon was booked for hip replacement surgery at Tambo Memorial Hospital in January 2019. The operation seemed to have been successful at first. Vernon was advised to attend physiotherapy to exercise his hip to build muscle strength, but he struggled through the sessions, in more pain than before the operation and was unable to walk without crutches. Months passed, and Vernon returned to his surgeon, who agreed to perform a total hip replacement in February 2020. After the procedure, the surgeon discovered that the steel pin used was the incorrect size.

Vernon is currently bedridden, fighting for his life, and in such immense pain that Linda says he’s contemplated taking his own life.

To help Vernon get back on his feet, the ‘Good Morning Angels’ contacted a specialist in hip replacement surgery and complications in Pretoria. Hoping to determine an appropriate treatment plan, they have agreed to cover the cost of the consultation and the necessary tests.

Upon seeing Vernon’s story, H2O Party launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, appealing to the public to assist Vernon with his medical costs, living expenses, and the comprehensive aftercare he will need.

“We, (H2O Party) saw his story this week in the papers and had to do something. If we could raise some funds to possible help him get private care or treatments after the operation or just ease the stress of his situation in any way.”

Since the crowdfunding campaign launched, over R103,000 has been raised towards their fundraising target of R100,000. Funds raised will go directly to Linda, his life partner so that she can try to arrange the care he needs.

“We just wanted to thank all our donors for their care, motivation and financial support. Your contributions mean a lot to us. This will help Cassie get well again. Thank you for your assistance during this tough time in our lives. It is greatly appreciated.” – says Linda

We will continue to update you on Cassie aka Vernon’s progress.

Photo Cred: Good Things Guy

Sources: Backabuddy | Good Things Guy 
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About the Author

Brent Lindeque is the founder and editor in charge at Good Things Guy.

Recognised as one of the Mail and Guardian’s Top 200 Young South African’s as well as a Primedia LeadSA Hero, Brent is a change maker, thought leader, radio host, foodie, vlogger, writer and all round good guy.

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