On Thursday, March 23, Nico Malan High School matric learner, Darrian Markides (17), was seriously injured during a rugby match against Woodridge, on home turf.
Evelyn Markides, Darrian’s mother, noted that they immediately knew that their son was in serious trouble when he sank to the ground after a scrum.
“Darrian is tough as nails. He always gets up, no matter how injured he is. When he did not immediately get to his feet we knew that he was seriously injured.”
X-rays and a specialist consultation confirmed the family’s worst fears: Darrian’s ankle was very badly broken and would need extensive surgery and subsequent rehabilitation in order to gain full mobility again. He would be wheelchair-bound in the meantime.
Markides shared that they were in dire straits after hearing the extent of Darrian’s injuries, as they do not have a medical aid to pay for the surgery and rehabilitation he would need.
“Unfortunately, state hospitals are overrun with emergencies, which causes non-emergency medical care and surgeries such as Darrian’s, to be pushed to the bottom of waiting lists for theatre time.
“Waiting for state care at present could put a serious halt on Darrian’s school career and the plans he has for next year. Various orthopedic specialists were all in agreement that his leg requires specialised surgery.”
Very quickly, however, Kouga community members rallied around the family, helping them with their daily needs and creating fund-raising websites to help the family.
“The generosity of community members, friends and complete strangers has completely overwhelmed us. Within 48 hours of the funding pages going live, we had enough funds to pay for the deposit to secure a date for Darrian’s operation,” his mother said.
He was scheduled to have surgery yesterday, April 6, at St George’s Hospital in Gqeberha.
“We still need funds to pay for the rest of his medical care and rehabilitation, which is going to be a long and painful process, but just as God as provided for us in this first stretch, we completely trust Him to continue doing so throughout Darrian’s journey.”
“Through this whole ordeal Darrian has kept such a cheerful disposition, as is his nature. He has not let this setback break his spirit and proved it this week by asking a girl to his matric farewell – wheelchair and all!”
The Markides family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed towards Darrian’s recovery thus far.
Visit “Let’s help Darrian walk into his future” on Facebook to follow Darrian’s journey or donate towards his medical expenses.
