On Saturday 12/06/2021 our family was involved in a very traumatic attempted hijacking. The three of us were exceptionally traumatized and even though I realized we are physically okay after the ordeal, I wanted to make sure all of us are okay and I brought us to the Paardevlei EC. I just needed to be reassured as my husband is a known high risk and has cardiac co-morbidities and my 14 year old daughter could not stop shaking and crying. Our reception at the EC was phenomenal. I need to highlight the following people:

Monique du Preez who helped us arrange opening a file even before we arrived. She also lent an extra mask to my daughter who’s mask disappeared somewhere between us being attacked and arriving at the hospital.

Phumlani Silevana who was so caring, helped open the files and ensured my daughter was seen to as soon as possible after arriving.

ENA Buyiswa Dyan who was so caring and who reassured my daughter by explaining to her everything that she was going to do before touching her. Lelanie was so traumatized she shied away from any unfamiliar person touching her, but Buyiswa went out of her way to explain the monitor, what she was measuring and she explained that Lelanie’s blood pressure was elevated but that it was due to the shock. My child calmed down very fast and started asking questions which was patiently answered by Buyiswa. Her care and patience went beyond the call of duty. Thank you.

Buyiswa also cleaned my elbow, which was bleeding after I hit the one hijacker in the face. She was so tender and tried not to inflict physical pain on top of the emotional trauma already sustained. She also allowed me to stay with my child throughout as she realized I just needed to make sure she was okay and that neither me, nor Lelanie could tolerate being separated at that time. This was despite her job being more difficult with two patients in one cubicle. Her care was phenomenal.

EN Marlene Kruser helped my husband and did his ECG, put up a drip and administered medication with so much compassion. Between her and Buiswa they kept both of us updated on what was happening to the others. That really helped us settle and feel safe.

Dr Louis Cordier was also very good. He explained everything to every one of us and helped us feel safe enough to just let go and trust him. My daughter commented later that she was so impressed by the fact that he called a Physician to get the safe dose of sedative for her and to check on the number of agents and doses needed for the ARV’s he prescribed for me. He literally ran between the cubicles to keep us up to date as he knew I would not leave my child, even though I was still worried about my husband and he was worried about us.

The service we received from Busamed Paardevlei EC was of the highest standard and I cannot thank you enough for helping us in a time of such stress, turmoil and confusion.

Sincere Regards
Catharina Van Rooyen