Well-known amputee athlete Xolani Luvuno, 36, passed away on Monday evening, September 20, in his apartment, confirms his mentor, Hein Ventor.
According to Sowetan Live, Venter wrote in a Facebook post on Monday, September 20, that Luvuno had been a son to him, a friend to many, and a hero to all who were inspired by his bravery and appreciated his humility.
Tributes have poured in for Xolani Luvuno who overcame every bad thing life threw his way to complete challenging events including the Comrades Marathon and the Iron Man, reports SA People.
Luvuno’s inspirational life story pulled on the heartstrings of many South Africans. When Venter met Luvuno in 2016, his leg had been amputated due to cancer.
Venter saved Xolani from a life of drugs and begging, living under a bridge in Centurion and gave him hope. With Venter’s support, Xolani overcame his addiction to nyope, started training with Hein and became an endurance athlete, and worked for him in his perfume business.
His mentor also confirmed that he was a hero in the eyes of many South Africans, and on Facebook, fans of the amputee athlete shared their heartfelt memories of him and how his life inspired theirs. His cause of death is still unknown.
Picture: Youtube video
