A Story of Family, Faith, and Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic tested everyone in different ways. Hospitals were overwhelmed, and George Mukari Hospital, like many others, had to extend its capacity by creating individual ICU rooms. It was during this challenging period that a series of events unfolded, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Sauro, a young man living just down the road from my family, had no idea how dramatically his Christmas would turn out. In the late afternoon on Christmas day, he visited a nearby tavern to meet some friends. As one drink led to another, the hours slipped away. Realizing it was late, Sauro decided to head home. Staggering slightly, he checked the time on his phone and began his walk.
The streets were quiet, illuminated by occasional streetlights. Sauro had covered about two-thirds of the distance when a pair of bright headlights appeared in the distance. Despite the lights approaching, he continued his staggered journey. Suddenly, he fell by the side of the road. Rising painfully, he muttered, “I’m OK, I’m good,” to the woman behind the wheel of the car that had just hit his right foot. Resolute, he dragged himself home, focused on the thought of a shower and his bed.
Once in his room, the pain in his leg sharpened. His younger brother, John, entered the room, switched on the light, and was horrified to see blood pooling on the floor. Alarmed, John ran to their father. “He’s bleeding! We must take him to the hospital immediately!”
The family rushed Sauro to the nearest Netcare Hospital. The emergency room staff cleaned his wound, took x-rays, and applied a bandage. Tragically, the x-rays revealed a fractured femur. Without medical aid, Sauro was discharged, and his father drove him to George Mukari Hospital. At this Provincial Government Hospital, Sauro became the 15th patient awaiting surgery. With the theatre closed, two days before Christmas, all the patients had to wait for the festive season to end before the surgical team resumed work.
As Sauro’s story spread, his sister shared it with my wife. Both women were part of the same church cell group. The New Year’s Eve visiting hour coincided with several commitments: my sister-in-law was flying back to Harare, and our local church was hosting a crossover service into the new year. Despite the busy schedule, my wife decided to visit Sauro in the hospital on New Year, persuading me to join her.
Before heading to the hospital, we planned to meet Mpho, Sauro’s sister, and her parents. Mpho had been eager for us to meet her family for months, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. We arrived at their home at 2 PM, where we were warmly welcomed with dessert and heartfelt conversation. Mpho’s parents were loving and hospitable, making the visit a delightful experience.
Soon, it was time to head to the hospital. When we arrived, Sauro was allowed to join us outside briefly. We found a quiet spot and sat together. I brought my guitar from the car, and we began singing a few gospel choruses. Sauro, despite his injury, joined in, his voice blending with ours. Other patients nearby paused to listen, their faces reflecting a mixture of curiosity and joy. The impromptu concert was a rare and uplifting moment amidst the sombre hospital setting.
Sauro grabbed the guitar…
“This is a pleasant surprise for me,” Sauro said, his smile showing both gratitude and relief. For a short while, the weight of his injury and the uncertainty of his situation seemed to lift.
As the visiting hour came to an end, Sauro’s mother prepared to change his bedding. Using crutches, Sauro walked with us to the end of the hospital passage, where he waved goodbye. We drove home, reflecting on the strength of human connection and the unexpected ways hope can surface.
This story is a reminder that even in difficult times, small acts of kindness and moments of shared faith can bring light to the darkest days. Sauro’s resilience, the love of his family, and the unity of a community coming together showcased the beauty of compassion and faith. As we drove back that evening, the simple joy of the moment stayed with us, a beacon of hope for the year ahead.
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