Life can take unexpected turns, challenging us in ways we never imagined. Such is the case for 27-year-old Jason Brits’ from Pretoria, a talented glass blower whose life was forever altered by a devastating road accident in September 2022.
As he sought medical attention at a state hospital, regrettably due to not having any medical aid, Jason received subpar treatment, leaving his foot with shattered and swelling carpal bones, nerve, tendon, and muscle damage, and rendering it unusable. Due to the extent of damage to the bones, nerve damage and incorrect medical care has left him with atrophy and if left untreated, amputation would be an option to relieve him of the constant pain he is suffering.
Pictured above: Jason Brits
With no other choice, Jason sought a second opinion from Dr. Pieter Coertze, a renowned specialist at Montana Hospital in Pretoria. The consultation brought a ray of hope as Dr. Coertze diagnosed that with corrective surgery, Jason’s foot could be salvaged. The infected bones need to be removed, paving the way for physiotherapy which would enable Jason to walk without pain and work again. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as the surgery must take place as soon as possible for the inflicted bones have a high possibility of turning gangrenous which will result in the irreversible decision of amputation.
The severity of Jason’s injury not only affects him but also has far-reaching consequences for his wife, Emlee, and their unborn child. Their once-stable life turned upside down as Jason’s injury forced him into unemployment. With no other financial support, Emlee is now the sole provider for their family. The impending arrival of their first child makes the situation even more heart-wrenching. Jason’s greatest wish is to be an active and supportive husband and an engaged father, free from the limitations of a limp or amputated leg.
Pictured above: Jason with wife, Emlee
Jason’s aspirations extend beyond his own well-being. He yearns to be a supportive husband and an active father, engaging in all the adventures and joys that come with parenthood. His desire to walk, run, play, climb, and be an equal participant in his child’s life fuels his determination to undergo the necessary surgery and reclaim his life as an artisan, a supportive husband, and a loving father and caregiver.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
In pursuit of restoring hope and mobility, Jason and his family have launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for his medical journey. The family has since raised R64 837 towards his target of R150 000.00.
“After the accident, aiding my wife with rent and food, I was left penniless. My wife and I had no means to afford further medical expenses and for a time gave up on trying to find hope in resolving our changed lives. Once news came to light of my wife’s pregnancy and we heard of BackaBuddy, did the spark of hope return. We made an active effort, with the support of family members, to seek out a better doctor and start a campaign to have the surgery needed so that I may return into the fold of my career and to begin the great adventure of starting a family; of being a father. BackaBuddy has shown us that if there is a will there’s a way and if there is a way life will, with no doubt be better in the end!”
Pictured above: Jason Brits and his mentor
Life is full of unexpected challenges, and Jason Brits’ journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing the heartbreak of a life-altering injury, he remains determined to reclaim his life as a glass blower, husband, and father. With the support and generosity of the community, we can rally together to help Jason get the corrective surgery he urgently needs. This act of compassion and kindness will not only change his life but also bring hope and joy to his family’s future. Let’s come together and be a part of Jason’s second chance – a chance to rebuild his dreams and embrace the boundless possibilities of life once again.
For more information or to support Jason’s campaign, please visit:
BackaBuddy campaign:
Alternatively, donate via Snapscan:
https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/Jason_Brits
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