Helping Hannes Joubert
- By: Hannes Joubert
- Short URL: https://archive.backabuddy.co.za/hannes-joubert-5756885085889661088
- Date Created: 13 November 2023
Personal message
Good day everyone, my name is Hannes Joubert. I am a 66-year-old male — a walking “miracle man”.
On 16 July 1986 my life changed irrevocably. While doing my daily duties at work, a forklift dropped its fork, pinning me to the ground with about 3 tons of steel. One rod was over me, pinning me down while the other rod pressed against my ribcage from the back.
I was taken to Paardekraal hospital, where x-rays later confirmed broken ribs, and a broken back! At this point, no anesthesia had been administered. My doctor did a work-up on me and confirmed a burst spleen causing internal bleeding. I was taken for an emergency operation to remove the spleen, when doctors realised my insides where pressed to a pulp. My BP was so elevated, doctors did not think I would survive the night.
My family gathered around and were in a constant state of prayer. God pulled through, and I was discharged 10 days later. I started with a slow and very long rehabilitation.
After 6 weeks, I realised my leg was not making progress as it should, and I went back to the Orthopaedic Surgeon. I was referred to a Neurosurgeon, who, after x-rays, could not believe that I was able to walk - I should not even be alive! The x-rays confirmed that broken bones were pinching down my leg nerves. I was admitted again for a back operation.
It was concluded that both my shoulder blades were broken, and that parts of my back were pressed in. The doctor removed my discus and created a new one by means of blood flowing into the position.
I was discharged again 10 days later, being told that we would need to operate again in 5 years. I was doing good at home, when I fell, and we started all over again: another operation. This time they removed a piece of my hip and implanted it in my back. Two vertebrae were attached with a metal screw and wire.
According to the Workmen’s Compensation, I am 38,5% medically unfit for work, and I will not be able to play sport or work again. God pulled through once again, and I now own a successful business, and I am able to walk and play ball as a normal person. The accident caused a 65% hearing loss, but I am ever grateful to be alive.
Through the years my strength grew back, and I was slowly but surely going back to normal. That was until recently….
While carrying the groceries from the car to the house, I slipped, and fell on my tailbone. The pain gradually built up until it came to a point where I could barely walk.
I went back to my doctor, who then confirmed that I need another surgery. This time, I do not have the funds to pay for it - I have no medical aid.
I would need to do an MRI, then go into surgery. There is a 6-week healing time and then rehab starts all over again. During this time, business will be a lot slower than usual, meaning my cashflow would be very tight.
Both me and my wife are coming to you today, in the hopes that you can find it in your heart to donate towards my surgical expenses. Any amount, big or small, would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
Statistics
Fundraising target
R 200 000.00Donations to date
R 0.00Helping Hannes Joubert Campaign
