Micheal and Bailey: Balcony Accident Strengthens Bond Between Rescue Cat and Dog

Micheal and Bailey: Balcony Accident Strengthens Bond Between Rescue Cat and Dog

by | Jan 24, 2024 | Impact

Newlyweds Amber Jempson, a 24-year-old Administrative Clerk, and her partner Calvin, a 25-year-old skipper from Sunningdale, Cape Town, are devoted fur-parents to Micheal, a rescue cat, and Bailey, their rescue dachshund. The remarkable and unlikely bond between Micheal and Bailey, celebrated on their Instagram page, has captured the hearts of their humble following.

Furry Instagram celebrities and best friends, Micheal and Bailey

However, tragedy struck on January 2nd when Micheal, just one-year-old, accidentally fell from the fourth floor of their apartment building. This unfortunate incident left Micheal with fractures in both of his legs, necessitating urgent medical attention.

Amber recounted the heartbreaking details of the accident, saying, “We were on the balcony for our morning sun and coffee, we had mesh up, but the estate we live in made everyone remove it due to aesthetic reasons. I looked away for a split second, and something caught Micheal’s attention on the little ledge. I did not want to scare him, so I called him back inside because I thought if he got safely out there, he would be able to bring himself safely in. He was doing great until he got his hips stuck and panicked, and in a normal cat reaction, he tried to reverse. He pushed too quickly, and I started running towards him, but I wasn’t able to grab him in time.”

Micheal and Bailey with their fur-parent, Amber

While insurance did provide some coverage, the damage caused by the fall was extensive. Amber recalled, “Micheal was awake and crying. Thankfully, there was no blood, but that cry will stay with me forever! I could see his front paw was broken, but had no idea the back had snapped too.”

The estimated expenses included R2,500 for an emergency vet visit, over R40,000 for surgical procedures, and more than R8,000 for post-operative care.

Amber, feeling helpless but resolute in her determination to save Micheal, launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. The campaign aimed to raise R65,000 to cover the hefty medical bills. So far, it has garnered tremendous support, with 10 generous donors contributing over R17 400 to help Michael on his road to recovery.

Micheal underwent a successful seven-hour surgery at Sunset Veterinary Clinic, where screws and wires were expertly placed to mend his broken bones. The joy of his family, and especially Bailey (exuberantly wagging her tail), was immeasurable when Micheal finally returned home.

 

Micheal laying in his crate after his fall from the balcony

The pair, accustomed to doing everything together, is now temporarily separated by a crate as Micheal undergoes a six-week recovery process.

Amber shared the heartwarming details of their friendship, saying, “They love to play fight on the couch and go on beautiful walks together!”

The response from the Cape Town community has been nothing short of heartwarming. Friends and complete strangers, moved by the unlikely friendship between Micheal and Bailey, have stepped up to donate and send their good wishes. Amber and Calvin have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.

Amber shared her gratitude, saying, “We thought we were going to lose our beautiful boy. We were so overcome with emotions, but to see strangers who have never even met Micheal donating and sending good wishes, it was just so heartwarming.”

 

Micheal and Bailey enjoying a day at the beach

Micheal‘s journey began when Amber and Calvin were on a trip to KZN (South Coast) for their wedding. Amber shared the heartwarming story, saying, “My husband and myself had made the journey back to KZN for our wedding, and on the way down, my mother sent us a few photos of kittens. The mother had been rescued, and she had given birth to six beautiful kittens who were looking for homes. We saw the photo of Micheal, and it was instant love at first sight! He had the most beautiful blue eyes and white whiskers. We bought all the supplies needed and drove back to Cape Town as a family of 3.”

Currently, Micheal is on the mend, having completed two of his eight weeks in the crate. His bandages and stitches have been removed, and he’s yearning for cuddles and attention. While he can walk, his recovery is ongoing as his legs are still a bit stiff.

In about 7 months, Micheal will have to have another operation to remove the screws and plates, as he is still growing, and if he doesn’t have the operation, it will affect his ability to walk.

Looking ahead, Amber and Calvin are determined to move to a safer home for Micheal and Bailey, away from the dangers of a high-rise apartment. They are actively searching for a new home where Micheal and Bailey can enjoy a secure and happy life together.

 

To contribute to Micheal’s ongoing recovery, consider donating to his BackaBuddy campaign: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/amber-van-broekhuizen-5800058015425599212

 

For Updates: Micheal and Bailey’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/michealandbailey/

Port Edward Resident (57) Grapples with Lengthy Recovery After Harrowing Dog Attack

Port Edward Resident (57) Grapples with Lengthy Recovery After Harrowing Dog Attack

by | Dec 6, 2023 | Campaign, Impact

On September 4th, 2023, Anita Els, a resilient 57-year-old resident of Port Edward, KwaZulu-Natal, endured a distressing attack by a pack of five border collie dogs.

Recognizing the life-altering trauma Anita has experienced, the community has come together to launch a vital fundraising campaign, aiming to provide essential support for Anita’s lengthy recovery. 

 

Pictured above: Anita with Angie, who started her BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign.

 

Anita, known for her warm smile from her time working at The Old Pont reception and actively involved in the local church, now faces a challenging journey of healing, both physically and emotionally.

Merely two days after settling into her new residence, within walking distance of a promising job opportunity, Anita’s life took a tragic turn. On that ill-fated day, she fell victim to a vicious dog attack, sustaining severe injuries on multiple body parts, including arms, legs, breast, shoulder, back, and lower areas. The left leg, torn down to the bone, hovered on the brink of amputation.

“After a routine walk to fetch my medication, I faced a horrifying ordeal at my gate. Initially greeted by Diesel, one of the dogs, the situation escalated when the others joined in, attacking me mercilessly. They tore my clothes, removed my shoes, and left me traumatized. One particularly terrifying dog made eye contact, viciously biting my breast and shoulder. In a desperate attempt to fend him off, I struck his snout, resulting in scars on my arm.”

“Despite the shocking nature of the attack, my landlord discouraged reporting to the authorities. I was overwhelmed, shaking tremendously, and slipping into shock. Thankfully, a member of the public called a private ambulance due to the severity of the damage and helped me escape the brutal scene,” recounts Anita, reflecting on the terrifying sequence of events.

The ambulance swiftly intervened, rushing Anita to Port Shepstone Hospital.

Over a challenging six-week period, Anita underwent two surgeries that successfully averted the looming threat of amputation, saving her left leg. Throughout this time, she demonstrated remarkable courage in facing painful wound scrubbing procedures, numerous theater visits, and considerable discomfort. The dedicated doctors and professors at Albert Luthuli Hospital played a pivotal role in the miraculous preservation of her leg. Despite enduring extreme pain and scarring following the successful integration of donor skin, Anita was given minimal pain medication during her stay.

 

Pictured above: Anita after surgery

 

Anita’s path to recovery remains extensive, and she is also grappling with the psychological aftermath of her ordeal, prompting the community to actively seek specialized consultations and treatments to support her ongoing healing journey.

After being discharged on Monday, November 3rd, she sought solace in a holiday home in Port Edward, generously provided by Vispen and Jan from Norway. The supportive community of Port Edward has thus far played a vital role in Anita’s recovery, offering assistance in various forms, from medical care to daily living essentials.

 

Pictured above: Anita was discharged from Hospital on Nov 3

 

Anita faces an extended recovery journey, requiring extensive trauma counseling. The community expresses gratitude to global friends and family, forming what Anita calls her “angel army,” for their continuous support in helping her rebuild her life.

To aid Anita, a crowdfunding initiative, led by Angie Hodgson—a trustee of the Help Foundation and a close friend—has been initiated on BackaBuddy. The campaign has already amassed nearly R23,000, contributing to the overall funding goal of R300,000. The Help Foundation, in collaboration with Pastor John Pretorius and Hazel Oosthuis, is diligently managing the funds allocated for Anita’s recovery, ensuring they cater to her essential medical and personal needs.

Angie, reflecting on Anita’s journey, said, “It’s hard to find words that truly describe what Anita is going through. She’s showing immense courage and strength as she tries to rebuild her life after facing unimaginably tough times. We’re incredibly thankful for the angels who have come together to support Anita, and her appreciation for this help runs deep.”

Currently, Anita requires extensive physiotherapy due to a shortened Achilles tendon, compelling her to walk on her toes. This demands frequent travel to the nearest occupational therapist. Despite a successful skin grafting procedure, the donor side of her leg is still healing. 

Contributions to Anita’s recovery on BackaBuddy, the sharing of her story, or offering assistance, are greatly appreciated.

 

Pictured above: (Left to right) Christna van Rensburg (old family friend), Vicky Lund (her parents gave the use of their holiday home in Port Edward, Anita and Angie)

 

“If it were not for the BackaBuddy campaign, I don’t know what I would have done. How do you say thank you for such incredible kindness. The campaign has helped me get to where I am today: finally out of hospital and on the long road to recovery, as my wounds heal and I learn to walk again. The saddest part is that I am very distrusting of any dogs at this stage of my journey” – says Anita

In pursuit of justice following her ordeal, Anita did file a case against her landlord, but regrettably, it was dismissed by the public prosecutor, leaving her with limited legal recourse.

 

Support Anita’s recovery on BackaBuddy: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/Anita-Els

 

Create a crowdfunding campaign

South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R420 Million.

12-year-old Eco-Champion Romario Launches Festive Fundraiser to Save Marion Island’s Precious Seabirds

12-year-old Eco-Champion Romario Launches Festive Fundraiser to Save Marion Island’s Precious Seabirds

by | Nov 30, 2023 | Campaign, Impact

Romario Valentine, a 12-year-old environmental enthusiast and 2022 BirdLife SA Owlet laureate from Umhlanga, Durban, is making waves with his extraordinary dedication to protecting the planet.

The young ornithophile has not only secured the title of the youngest Ambassador for Ocean Sole but has also represented South Africa at a United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

 

Pictured above: Romario holding his Saving Marion Island’s Seabirds Certificate of Appreciation

 

Romario’s environmental journey began at the age of 6, and since then, he has actively participated in numerous conservation projects, beach clean-ups, and tree-planting initiatives. Renowned globally for his efforts, Romario’s passion led him to become an ambassador for Ocean Sole, a Kenyan company specializing in recycling flip-flops that wash ashore.

Having appeared on prestigious platforms such as 50/50, National Geographic Kids, and Global Citizen, Romario has raised over R76,000 for environmental causes on the crowdfunding platform BackaBuddy since the age of 8. 

His diverse initiatives include over 250 beach cleans and the planting or sponsorship of over 455 trees in 31 countries worldwide.

“At BackaBuddy, over the last four years, we’ve been inspired by Romario Valentine’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation. His passion, coupled with the unwavering support from his generous donors, has created a powerful force for positive change. Together, they’ve not only raised funds but have become integral contributors to the broader preservation of our planet.  Romario proves that you are never too young to make a difference” – says Monique Weich, Donor coordinator at BackaBuddy

In September 2022, Romario released his book, ‘Protect our Planet – Take Action with Romario’, aimed at inspiring the next generation of nature lovers. The book covers essential environmental topics, including recycling, reforestation, pollution solutions, and climate change.

 

Pictured above: Romario smiling proudly with his self published book, Protect Our Planet

Christmas for the Birds

 

As the festive season draws near, Romario has relaunched his campaign in aid of BirdLife South Africa’s Mouse-free Marion Project, dedicated to safeguarding the vital seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels, on Marion Island, a sub-Antarctic location southeast of Cape Town in the Southern Indian Ocean. 

BirdLife South Africa is currently on a mission to eliminate rodents that pose a significant threat to bird species on Marion Island—an essential part of the marine ecosystem.

The albatross, wandering, sooty, grey-headed, and petrel populations are rapidly declining due to the invasive mice introduced by 19th-century sealers and whalers. These rodents are now preying on seabird chicks, hindering their journey to adulthood. The adult birds face additional challenges from the mice, coupled with the impacts of climate change and human activities. The severity of the infestation has left the adult birds defenceless against these predators.

 

Watch Video:

 

Last year, Romario’s Christmas campaign successfully sponsored 20 hectares on Marion Island. This year, he is determined to persist in his conservation efforts by raising R20 000 to sponsor an additional 20 hectares. Each R1,000 raised through his BackaBuddy campaign will contribute to sponsoring a hectare, ultimately contributing to the preservation of the 30,000-hectare Marion Island.

Romario encourages everyone to be part of this environmental legacy, stating, “When we take care of Nature, we take care of ourselves.” The campaign page will remain open until the end of January 2024.

 

To support Romario’s Seabirds Christmas Gift campaign, visit BackaBuddy: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/romarios-seabirds-christmas-gift

 

Follow Romario on Twitter for updates: ArtistRomario

 

Create a crowdfunding campaign

South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R420 Million.

Stellenbosch’s Little Givers Launches Urgent Appeal to Bridge Funding Gap for Underprivileged Children

Stellenbosch’s Little Givers Launches Urgent Appeal to Bridge Funding Gap for Underprivileged Children

by | Nov 27, 2023 | Campaign, Impact

In the heart of Devon Valley, Stellenbosch, The Little Givers Creche and Kindergarten is making an indelible impact on the lives of 21 underprivileged children, providing hope in the face of poverty and overcrowded living conditions.

Image above: Captivated young minds at Little Givers immersed in an engaging and enriching lesson

Dedicated to offering essential education and socialization opportunities, the Little Givers Creche serves as a safe haven for these children, countering the challenges of poverty and cramped living conditions. Through a nurturing environment, Little Givers is committed to empowering these young minds and contributing to their holistic development.

Many parents in this community grapple with unemployment or seasonal employment, resulting in meager financial resources. The children endure cramped living conditions in small wooden wendy houses, with an average of 15 people per unit. This impedes their ability to study and thrive due to a lack of privacy and dedicated time for homework.

Recognizing these challenges, The Little Givers creche and kindergarten strive to provide a nurturing environment with stimulating learning opportunities and essential socialization experiences for the children.

However, sustaining the facility’s operation requires funding for salaries, maintenance, utilities, rent, food, and cleaning, totaling a monthly fee of R550 per child. Regrettably, this fee exceeds what the parents can afford, despite their commendable contribution of 32 percent of the costs in 2021.

Over the past three years, The Little Givers project has been fortunate to receive generous support from both corporate entities and individuals through donations and in-kind contributions. However, the current financial year presents a pressing shortfall of R70,000.

To bridge this gap, The Little Givers has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. Currently, over R17,000 has been raised towards their R70,000 target. 

Image above: Dedicated efforts by the Little Givers creche to establish a secure and hygienic haven for the children

Although this is a commendable achievement, additional funding is urgently needed to sustain operations and cover ongoing expenses.

“Your consideration and support are instrumental in enabling us to make a tangible difference in the lives of these deserving children. Together, we can empower them with the education and opportunities they deserve,” says Little Givers.

Support this campaign on BackaBuddy: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/little-givers-caring-and-learning-developm

 

Create a crowdfunding campaign

South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R420 Million.

Miracle in Motion: Kempton Park Teen Learned to Walk Again After Life-Threatening Brain Condition

Miracle in Motion: Kempton Park Teen Learned to Walk Again After Life-Threatening Brain Condition

by | Nov 23, 2023 | Campaign, Impact

At just 17 years old, Kylie Rossouw from Kempton Park, Johannesburg, faced a formidable challenge that tested her strength and determination. Diagnosed with arteriovenous malformation (AVM) at the age of 15, a complex and life-threatening condition affecting the blood vessels in her brain, Kylie embarked on a courageous journey to reclaim her life.

 

Pictured: The first weekend Kylie spent at home from the rehab with her three legged rescue dog Lola

 

Given the gravity of her situation, Kylie had to make a life-altering decision at a tender age – undergo a risky operation with a 4% chance of complications or live a life marked by constraints and uncertainties. Opting for the former, Kylie’s resolve was put to the ultimate test during the surgery on March 7, 2022, when unforeseen complications led to an intraoperative hemorrhage, putting her in a two-day medically induced coma.

 

Pictured above: Kylie before her operation

 

The harrowing experience left Kylie’s parents, Angelique and Tertius, grappling with a torrent of emotions. Angelique shares, “How do you stay positive when your heart is broken into a million pieces? These and a million other questions were racing through our minds.”

Upon awakening, Kylie confronted the stark reality of losing feeling and mobility on her left side, challenging not only her physical well-being but also the realization that her dream of becoming a neurosurgeon might be in jeopardy. 

Her mother reflects on the scariest moment, “It was the scariest moment of our lives, watching her get taken into theatre. When the doctors decided to wake Kylie and within an instant, our lives changed forever.”

Undeterred, Kylie’s resilience shone through as she embarked on an arduous road to recovery. Nearly three weeks in the hospital were followed by five weeks of intense therapy in a rehabilitation facility in Pretoria. Despite the setback, Kylie achieved a significant milestone, walking unassisted upon her discharge on April 29, 2022.

 

Pictured above: Kylie discharged from the rehab, showing her progress from being in a wheelchair to using a walking stick and walking on her own

 

Choosing to take a hiatus from school in 2022 to focus entirely on rehabilitation was a difficult decision for Kylie. However, her unwavering determination to excel academically persists. Despite challenges such as difficulty focusing and limited hand mobility, Kylie aims to pursue Neuropsychology after high school, adapting her aspirations to the new circumstances.

Kylie’s father expresses unwavering faith in her recovery, stating, “Nothing is impossible when she puts her mind to it. She will get better; she is my daughter. I will keep on pushing her to get better.”

 

Pictured: Kylie, her mom Angelique, father Tertius and brother Ryan

 

Yet, the journey is not without financial hurdles. Kylie’s family faces mounting medical expenses due to her medical aid provider’s reluctance to cover essential costs. To bridge this gap, the Rossouw family initiated a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign on April 19, 2022.

The campaign has thus far been instrumental in securing vital therapies, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, botox treatments, and essential medical expenses. Over R96,000 has been raised towards the R150,000 target, a testament to the generosity of family, friends, and a growing community of supporters.

Expressing gratitude, Kylie acknowledges, “Thank you to all the donors who donated to my BackaBuddy campaign. Your belief in me has given me renewed hope and motivation to keep pushing forward.”

Her parents emphasize that Kylie has always been exceptional, a few steps ahead of the average teen, taking responsibility seriously. They reflect, “Being a parent to Kylie is the greatest gift.”

 

To contribute to Kylie’s journey to recovery, visit: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/kylie-rossouw 

 

Create a crowdfunding campaign

South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R420 Million.