Island swim challenge to raise funds for Achmat Hassiem
TO RAISE funds for former Paralympian and shark attack survivor Achmat “Sharkboy” Hassiem, Melkbosstrand resident Jon Vickers is undertaking seven Robben Island crossings in seven days.
Funds raised by Vickers, 45, will go towards the care of Hassiem, who has been in a coma for eight months due to complications after having surgery on his back last year.
Vickers, who started his first crossing on Monday, and hopes to complete his final crossing on Sunday, aims to raise R50 000.
“Achmat has done so much for the community since his shark attack, in terms of motivational speaking, charity drives and also being a Paralympian,
“I just felt that someone who has done so much for the country and his community, it’s about time we do something for him now,” said Vickers.
“I do not know Achmat personally, but I wanted to do something that is bigger than myself and to empower someone.
“The money will be going directly towards the care of Achmat. I am getting my family and clients involved to help get funding for the family,” he said.
Hassiem’s brother, Taariq said the family was grateful for Vickers’s efforts and any money that would be raised.
“It will take a lot of stress and pressure off my family in regards to paying medical bills and taking care of Achmat. The funds will help towards all the things that run out, such as food, supplements, nappies and sanitary supplies,” he said.
“There has been no progress with Achmat so far; however, he will be discharged from hospital in two weeks and will be able to go home. We are extremely grateful to Jon for wanting to help out the family by just reaching out. It puts a lot of happiness and hope in our family’s heart to know that there are still good people out there and to know that my brother has touched so many people that want to help him. It just goes to show what a good person my brother was,’’ said Taariq.
To donate, visit: https://gogetfunding.com/7-7challenge/
https://gogetfunding.com/achmatsharkboy/