Bonteheuwel tribute to Covid-19 couple
THE children of the late Dr Cassiem Adams and his wife, Shafieka, who died within days of each other due to Covid-19, say the continued support and love from their community and afar, has helped them cope with the huge loss.
Adams served the Bonteheuwel community and neighbouring areas for more than 40 years.
Ziyaad Adams said he and his three siblings were struggling to deal with the loss of their 74-year-old father just before Christmas, when their mom, aged 72, died last Tuesday.
Adams said they took comfort in the support they were still receiving as it had been a traumatic experience.
“Our parents' death has been tough on all of us. We are still mourning. The number of people's lives my dad touched over the years has been evident these past weeks.
“My father dedicated his life to serving people and he did it wholeheartedly.
“The positive side of this is that it raised a lot of awareness.
“People have started to realise that this is no joke, this pandemic is real. Losing a loved one in this manner is not easy. Not everyone has a support system like we do,” he said.
Bonteheuwel ward councillor Angus McKenzie said every day this week between 9am and 12pm, in honour of the Adams and others who have succumbed to the virus, the public can pay tribute in a drive-by memorial.
For those who wish to pay tribute in this way, flowers and cards can be dropped.
“To honour Dr Adams and his wife, Shafieka, the tribute for them and every other person will take place outside his surgery at the Bus Terminus on Bluegum Avenue.
“People are requested to drive through, drop their respects and leave,” said McKenzie.
He said no gatherings would be allowed and everyone must wear a mask.
“In the spirit of fighting back let's give honour to the heroes that have fought this virus. This is to also show we are united and are determined to get through this together,” he said.