GEORGE NEWS - Marianne Tome (39), a Mossel Bay resident, sustained severe spinal cord injuries in a motorcycle accident in Spekboom Street near Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay, on Friday 19 June.
Her mother, Madeleine Botha, who lives in George, said she is devastated by what has happened, but grateful for the care her daughter is receiving.
Tome was initially admitted to George Hospital's ICU before being transferred to the neurosurgery ICU at Groote Schuur Hospital on Saturday 4 July
In an interview with George Herald, Botha said about 90% of Tome's body is paralysed, and she is unable to breathe without mechanical assistance. The doctors have informed the family that there is currently no surgical procedure that can repair the injury.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday 7 July, Botha shared an update on her daughter's condition. "The doctor says my child is stable. They inserted a speaking valve for her last night, so she can now talk to us. She was very emotional when we spoke to her and pleaded with us to come to her. She is still connected to machines that are breathing for her, and we are praying for a breakthrough while the doctors continue with further tests.
"My child is heartbroken. She misses her own child and just wants her mother. Lord, please bring peace to my child. Let her know that we are with her and that we love her."
Botha said her greatest wish is to be by her daughter's side in Cape Town. However, as a full-time carer and the primary breadwinner, she cannot afford to stop working and does not have the financial means to cover the travel and accommodation costs.
She is appealing for financial assistance, and said she is deeply grateful for the support she has already received. The donations will help cover fuel costs and a few nights' accommodation close to the hospital. Contact Botha directly on 061 106 7425.
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