‘Setbacks’ slow Kathrada’s recovery

ANTI-APARTHEID Struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada’s recovery from his operation has been “slower than hoped”.

Kathrada, 87, was admitted to hospital on March 4 for surgery related to blood clotting on the brain.

The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation’s director, Neeshan Balton, said the veteran had “experienced several health-related setbacks, making the prognosis of his illness unpredictable”. “He remains in hospital, with everything being done to assist his recovery,” Balton said.

He added that visits from members of the public were still not permitted due to hospital regulations and the need for a restful period of recovery. “We have been overwhelmed by the immense support, both from within South Africa and abroad. We continue asking for your prayers during this period, both for Mr Kathrada and his family and friends,” Balton stated.

He indicated that the public was welcome to post “get well soon” on the foundation’s specially setup Facebook page – Well Wishes to Uncle Kathy (https://www.facebook.com/Well-Wishes-to-UncleKathy-270052456772587/), or by e-mailing info@kathradafoundation.org.

“We have also had requests from people about where they can leave cards bearing messages of support, or flowers. These can be dropped off at the foundation’s offices (Signet Terrace Office Park, Block B, Suite 2-19 GuineaFowl Street, Ext 1, Lenasia). All the messages will be collated and passed on to the family,” Balton said.

Kathrada, a tireless activist for non-racialism and constitutionalism, is one of three Rivonia Trialists still alive today, the other two being Andrew Mlangeni and Denis Goldberg.