Earlier this month, Bergvliet High School (BHS) took to Facebook to announce that past pupil and former Paralympian swimmer, Achmat Hassiem, was in the hospital fighting for his life.
Achmat Hassiem, fondly referred to as ‘Sharkboy’, was announced to be in a coma in hospital on Sunday, September 19. According to the athletes family, he was struggling to come through from a spinal surgery.
Achmat recently celebrated 15 years since his leg had been bitten off by a great white shark.
Read also: Former Paralympian Achmat Hassiem is in a coma in a Western Cape hospital
It was later reported that the athletes’ condition was slowly improving, being taken off life support on September 21.
Read also: Former Paralympian Achmat Hassiem’s health condition is improving
After being in hospital for nearly two weeks, Hassiem opened his eyes — a sure relief for family, friends, and the Cape Town community who came together in prayer and support of the swimmers’ recovery.
Read also: Cape Town Paralympian Achmat Hassiem opens his eyes after coma
In the latest update, the ex-paralympian’s family has revealed that he was “finally” off life support, but still in a critical condition, as per News24. There were hopes that by taking him off life support, his condition might change, however, Achmat is still not responsive.
Doctors are concerned about the patients’ fever, which is still 38.5-degrees due to a recent infection that he has picked up.
The publication spoke with Hassiem’s family who has expressed gratitude that their son is still alive and fighting for his life everyday.
“It is heartbreaking seeing my boy laying in the hospital and knowing I can’t do anything to help him is very sad. It’s every mother’s worst nightmare to see their child sick and not being able to take away the pain they’re going through. It is very hard. I know my son needs help and it’s difficult seeing him like this,” said his mom.
Achmat’s sibling Taariq expressed that the family are by his side everyday, waiting and hoping for him to come through.
Doctor’s have indicated that he is not yet out of the “danger zone,” however they are positive that he will make a recovery. The swelling in his neck has reduced.
Achmat’s mom added that once he awakes, he will need intense therapy. He will need rehabilitation to eat, move and more which could take a good amount of time.
The family started a crowdfunding campaign for Achmat, and said that they have been inundated with prayers and messages of hope.
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Picture: Twitter