Over R400,000 Raised for Chainsaw Victim, Triathlete Mhlengi Gwala
South Africans have already raised over R400,000 in a crowdfunding campaign to support star triathlete Mhlengi Gwala, who suffered a horrific chainsaw attack by thugs who callously tried to saw off his legs. UPDATE: The figure has now risen to over half a million rand! Mhlengi was cycling near the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Howard College […]
South Africans have already raised over R400,000 in a crowdfunding campaign to support star triathlete Mhlengi Gwala, who suffered a horrific chainsaw attack by thugs who callously tried to saw off his legs. UPDATE: The figure has now risen to over half a million rand!
Mhlengi was cycling near the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Howard College Campus) at around 03h00 on Tuesday morning when he was accosted by three men who dragged him into the bushes.
The 26-year-old athlete told the attackers to take his valuables, including his iPhone, Garmin and bicycle… but the men were not interested in his personal items and proceeded to cut into his legs. Luckily, security guards came to Mhlengi’s rescue and he was taken to a private hospital.
According to Triathlete Henri Schoeman, the blade had (fortunately) been too blunt, and they had only got halfway through one leg and started on the other. “Absolutely disgusting! How safe are we on SA roads?” tweeted Henri.
The senseless act made local and international headlines, sparking outrage.
Hoping to raise funds for Mhlengi’s medical treatment, JP Valverde from My Project Generator set up a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign.
South Africans have opened their hearts and not only contributed an overwhelming total of over R400K so far, but have also sent messages of support to Mhlengi. (See below.)
The funds, which will be managed by BackaBuddy, will go towards covering Mhlengi’s medical fees, transportation‚ bike replacement and rehabilitation costs, says JP.
The good news is that yesterday’s operation on Mhlengi’s legs was a success, according to his friend and training partner, Sandile Shange.
“He is able to talk and is in a lot of pain understandably. He is a strong-minded person and he has been blown away by the support shown by fellow South Africans,” says Sandile.
BackaBuddy CEO, Patrick Schofield, said: “Through their generosity, South Africans have once again proven, that as a society we will stand up for those affected by senseless acts of violence. One anonymous donation on BackaBuddy said it best, ‘May the love you feel from strangers help you overcome the fear and fuel your recovery.'”
Beautiful messages of support for Mlengi:
“Let the tar burn with fury when you return!” – Anonymous
“I’m sorry that you went through this. Remember, there are more good South Africans out there than bad ones. Get well soon.” – A concerned South African Citzen
“I cheered you in on Sunday at the Durban Ultra Tri and now I cheer you on to a speedy recovery!” – Melanie Perfect
“What a horrendous crime. Keep strong champ and hope you get back on the bike soon.” – Colin Richardson.
“I am deeply saddened by what happened but I know that it is all in the plan for you to continue on your journey! Don’t let this stop you! Get back and show them that you will not be kept down!” – Katya De Magalhaes
“You never know how strong you are until you have no choice! You are a fighter and a survivor. Looking forward to seeing you back on your bike!!” – Rob and Lori Wesselo
“May the love you feel from strangers help you overcome the fear and fuel your recovery.” – Anonymous
Support Mhlengi’s campaign here:
www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/get-mhlengi-back-on-his-bike
UPDATE: By 22h30 on Thursday evening, generous South Africans had raised R578,513.29 of the R750,000 target for Mhlengi’s needs!
https://www.facebook.com/ironmansouthafrica/photos/a.10150299019594459.378945.150898279458/10156313837814459/?type=3