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The tragedy that unfolded last month in Tembisa continues to weigh heavily on the local community. On a fateful morning, Keo Mavimbela was taking her daughter, 9-year-old Gomolemo, along with a 13-year-old boy, to school when their lives were catastrophically changed by a head-on collision involving a vehicle driven by Premier Soccer League player Shaune Mogaila.
Keo Mavimbela, who was severely injured in the crash, recently emerged from a coma. With her consciousness regained, she began asking for her daughter, unaware of the heartbreaking news that awaits her. Her husband, Tshepo Kekana, expresses the family's protective caution, "Whenever she starts asking about her daughter, we make excuses or just change the topic. We can't tell her now. The aim is to allow her to heal completely before delivering the news about our little girl."
The aftermath of the accident has left another family grappling with trauma. The 13-year-old boy, who also survived the crash, is currently undergoing intensive physiotherapy. His injuries were significant enough to warrant steel implants in both legs, rendering walking a profound challenge. His aunt, Mihloti Ndlovu, shared insights on his recovery: "The doctors said he is out of danger... and after he had steel implants on both legs, he's been going for physio. He's struggling to walk, and we think maybe after the physio he may go back home."
As for Shaune Mogaila, the footballer involved in the accident, legal proceedings hover over the situation. Currently released on R20,000 bail, Mogaila's next court appearance is scheduled for February 4, 2025. This incident has stirred numerous discussions around road safety and the responsibilities of high-profile athletes in society.
While the road to recovery might be long for those involved, the community's support for the victims and their families remains unwavering. Tshepo hopes that once Keo is fully informed and the initial shock dissipates, they can start the healing process as a family, forever changed by that tragic October morning.