GEORGE NEWS - Family and friends of Eduan Naudé (65), foster dad of local chess champ, Michael Sweetbert (12), said their final goodbyes at a memorial service in George last Friday 7 July.
"I met Eddie [Eduan] when I was 30 and then again 14 years ago on 7 July 2003. Five years later, on the same day, we were blessed with the gift of Michael who came to us when he was three years old.
Eduan's memorial service was delayed with six months until Michael could walk again.
After the accident Michael underwent major surgery.
He then spent three and a half months in bed, unable to walk, and more than a month in a wheelchair until he could walk on his crutches.
He also lost most of his teeth in the accident and De Necker Dentistry in George helped by giving him four new front teeth in June.
"I especially want to thank my orthopaedic nurse, Gina Olivier.
"She has been absolutely amazing and dedicated four and a half months of her time to me at a much lower salary than she would've earned anywhere else. Without her the progress I have made until now, would not have been possible," said a smiling Michael.
When asked about his future, Michael said that he will not be playing chess competitively anymore, but wants to explore new avenues.
Beverley said, "His father always enjoyed watching the Tour de France and Michael already slowly rode his bike twice around our drive-way before he became too tired. I am extremely proud of him, his attitude and his progress."
Michael went back to school in May and is doing well.
According to his mother he has started playing guitar and seems very
keen.
The pins in his leg will hopefully be removed in August or September this year.
The Michael Fund
Bank: Absa
Branch code: 632005
Account number: 405 0976 154
Reference: Michael Fund
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ARTICLE & PHOTO: KRISTY KOLBERG, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
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