A devastating accident sparked a story of compassion this week when local nonprofit (NPO) organisation, the Peggy Nesta Foundation, donated a wheelchair to the family of a 26-year-old Buffalo Flats man.
On the evening of July 27, Warren* (who would prefer to remain anonymous) and his friends were struck down by a speeding car that resulted in one fatality and left Warren with broken legs, a fractured pelvis and shoulder, and head trauma.
The alleged hit-and-run has shocked the Buffalo Flats community who are calling for increased traffic patrols to curb speeding in residential areas.
Warren’s mother, Dawn*, said if it was not for the immediate intervention of Red Alert Emergency Services, her son may not have made it.
She told the GO! & Express: “Apparently my son stepped in to intervene in an altercation between a group of young men which turned ugly when allegedly someone may have gotten behind the wheel [of the car] and deliberately inflicted violence on others.
“I unfortunately did not witness anything but when I heard what happened I rushed to the scene. I was just relieved to see my son was alive.”
Warren was rushed to hospital and has since been fighting to regain his mobility.
He faces a long road to recovery.
To assist, the Peggy Nesta Foundation stepped in and donated a wheelchair which will provide him with a measure of mobility and independence during his period of recovery.
Peggy Nesta’s Lisa Becker said: “We understood the urgency of the situation and the impact it would make on this young man’s life.
“Seeing the joy expressed by the community as the wheelchair was handed over reminded us why we do this work.
“It was a family in crisis, and we are grateful to have made a difference.”
For his mother, the donation is life-changing.
“These were my words: ‘Thank you God for opening a door. You answered my prayer’. I am so grateful for Peggy Nesta being a blessing to the community and being there for people who have no way out.”
Warren is now able to stand briefly and is working towards being able to walk again.
“He still needs more physiotherapy and has three more check-ups to go,” said Dawn.
“But he is determined. He is trying every day and believes he is going through this experience for a reason. He is able to get around the house with greater ease and the wheelchair has made it possible for me to get him to his various appointments with a lot less hassle.
“We are hopeful for his full recovery because he is showing daily improvement and works at standing every day.”
The foundation is dedicated to uplifting the people of East London through practical, compassionate outreach.
Becker said the NPO’s mission was to bring hope and beauty to Buffalo City by giving people a hand up and not just a handout.
In July, the NPO furnished two homes for vulnerable families, donated baby products to Guardians of Hope and provided care packages for 30 dedicated Beacon Bay police officers.
The NPO is busy planning a garage sale to raise medical funds for a young girl with an autoimmune disease.
Becker said the NPO’s work was made possible through partnerships with community members and businesses such as Bonz Investments.
For more information follow the Pegga Nesta Foundation on Facebook or visit www.peggy
nestafoundation.org.za.
