Bright family on the mend

“We are grateful and blessed that the community cares about us, the Bright family,” was the heartfelt sentiment of Marilize Bright on the morning of 22 August at Laerskool Horison. She and two of her children, Damian and Abigail, were hospitalised after they were kidnapped during a hijacking that ended in a collision earlier this year. Her baby daughter, Marinique escaped with mild injuries.

“I am doing well through the grace of God who has been with us and kept us strong during this time,” said Marilize.

The family was at the school to accept a donation from the Honour Wrestling Association’s Steve van Eden, who hosted a charity wrestling show to raise funds for the Bright family. Steve was the first person on scene on the day the hijacking took place and assisted authorities to apprehend one of the criminals.

Although the Bright family’s medical aid covered for the Intensive Care Unit and rehabilitation, it has not covered everything.

“The cost of the continuous medical examinations comes out of the family’s pocket and it’s not cheap, so HWA decided to assist the family in any way we can. We found this to be the best way to do so. The worst thing is that while the victims still have to struggle through medical bills piling up, the criminals are fully treated at state hospitals, and that is unbelievable,” said Steve.

Marilize’s husband Eugene said the family has been busy since being discharged from hospital and is trying to return to its normal routine.

“My focus is on my family and their well-being. I am no longer angry or cross. I am calm and just want my family to be fine. That is where my focus is,” he said.

Laerskool Horison’s principal, Deon van der Walt, who welcomed the family to the school said the school has done everything it can to help the Bright family in their time of need.

“The school was more than happy to help the Bright family. Steve approached us about the event and we offered him the use of the sports field. All the money generated from the event went to the family. The amount of support from the parents and community has been humbling and we are glad the Bright family has come through this difficult time,” he said.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.

Also Read:

Hijacking update: ‘The family is coping’ says spokesperson 

Bright family celebrates Mother’s Day together

Another Bright family member back home

More good news for Bright family

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