KLAARSTROOM NEWS - This past Saturday, 23 August, Dr André Hattingh, retired neurologist and founder of Pediatric Care Africa, and a team of dedicated volunteers held a medical outreach at the Klaarstroom Primary School in the heart of the Great Karoo.
Hattingh, who now lives in De Rust with his wife Joyce Crompvoets, is no stranger to service. In 2024, he walked an astounding 3 500 km across the country to raise awareness about farm murders and to collect funds for children's surgeries.
His non-profit, Pediatric Care Africa, founded in 2017, continues to focus on providing vital medical care and surgical support to underprivileged children across South Africa.
Saturday's outreach was a shining example of community collaboration. With the help of fellow medical professional Dr Anso Killian, a dispensing doctor, and a team of devoted nursing sisters, 82 patients received free medical treatment and medication.
The event was made even more impactful thanks to the involvement of the executive mayor's office of Oudtshoorn.
According to Crompvoets, their team ran the kitchen "like a Swiss clock," serving hot meals, handing out blankets, beanies and clothing to all patients in attendance.
"Children were treated to beautifully packed "sweetie" parcels and hand-knitted beanies, lovingly donated and prepared by the Mayor's team. The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) from Oudtshoorn also stepped in, donating fresh fruit and cool drinks, bringing smiles and nourishment to the young attendees."
Hattingh expressed deep gratitude to the acting headmaster of Klaarstroom Primary, who opened the school's facilities to the team.
"We were incredibly thankful to be allowed to use the school's kitchen and offices, especially with the strong Karoo wind making our usual gazebos quite impractical," he said.
One patient was referred for urgent medical attention and the Prince Albert Ambulance Service was called. Their response was described as "professional, fast and very efficient".
"What a few dedicated volunteers can achieve in just one day is nothing short of inspiring. This outreach reminded us all that when we come together, we can make a real difference in the lives of others."
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