It’s been seven weeks since 22-year-old Stefan Schoeman survived a harrowing fall of three storeys at the Galloway Centre in Strand, and the youngster remains in hospital on the road to a slow and steady recovery.
He’s been through several operations and procedures, and despite setbacks relating to recovery and infections, the road is gradually opening up for him to walk once again.
It was established that Schoeman was busy on the balcony and leaned out of the sliding window when he slipped and lost his balance, falling down to the second-floor roof (“Harrowing fall”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 15 May).
During a visit to a private rehabilitation facility where he is currently receiving treatment, he appeared in good spirits and in a positive frame of mind on Monday (24 June).
Schoeman recalled his life flashing before his eyes on that fateful day.
“All I could think about was my childhood and memories of my family and friends. As soon as I hit the ground I felt numb, everything was a blur,” he said.
“I felt no pain and tried to roll myself to the side and get up, but I couldn’t. I saw a neighbour from the corner of my eye and started to yell for help.”
Moreover, he said, on that day he was feeling ill and had taken off from work.
Schoeman also admitted the past two months had proven a tough and stressful period, not an easy journey to recovery.
His grandfather, Johan, explained there was still a long way to go in terms of treatment before Schoeman could be discharged from hospital, and that the family was wary of the challenges that lie ahead.
“He sustained severe injuries to both legs and other areas. We’re happy with the progress he’s made with his back and pelvis so far; some of the procedures appear to have been successful. Early on in the treatment, Stefan also had to battle an infection, which delayed recovery by about three weeks.
“He still cannot put any pressure on his feet and within the next few weeks everyone will have a better idea of how soon he can be discharged.”
Schoeman, though, has been consoled by the outpouring of love and support from friends and family as well as prayer groups that send blessings his way from all over the country and globe, including from loved ones all the way in USA, England and Denmark.
“I feel very blessed to have so much support, which is motivating and helping me stay positive,” he said.
Schoeman further mentioned that his friends have often brought him braai meat, celebrated their birthdays with him and brought all sorts of gifts to keep him in good spirits. “I’m maintaining a strong will to pursue recovery as I really want to walk again.”
At one stage, Schoeman was an avid and dedicated cross-country runner. “The doctor said I may not be able to run [in the near future], but I will probably [take up] cycling,” he pointed out.
He was previously employed at a steel company and a waterproofing company, but has since been offered a welding apprenticeship, which remains on the table until he has fully recovered.
Schoeman added he misses his own space at home and cannot wait to play on his gaming console again.
According to his grandfather he will still have to undergo physiotherapy and possibly further operations, and he is expected to make use of a wheelchair for some time until he can walk again. Johan added that the family is grateful that the medical aid covers most of his medical expenses. “We just don’t know what disabilities, if any, Stefan will have to live with,” he said.
Schoeman concluded he is immensely grateful for everyone’s prayers, kindness and support.
“Especially to the GB Med Rescue team and the emergency services who responded to the scene when I fell, I just want to say ‘thank you very much’, I dearly appreciate it,” he said.
