Garden Route bikers ride for baby Caleb's medical care

GEORGE NEWS - "With your help, we are able to assist those who can't afford it to obtain urgent medical attention, as in the case of little Caleb, and all I can say is, thank you."

This was part of the message delivered by Dr André Hattingh, a retired neurosurgeon and CEO of Pediatric Care Africa, before a church service at Life Connect Church in George on Sunday 24 May.

The service formed part of the annual Ride for a Child project organised by the Garden Route M.O.T.H Motorcycle Association.

Funds raised by the M.O.T.H Shellholes in the Garden Route, as well as funds raised on Sunday, are donated towards the project to raise money for brain surgery on 8-month-old Caleb from Nelspruit.

Hattingh said that projects like this, along with the support given by motorcyclists and motorcycle clubs, allow the public to view the motorcycle fraternity in a different light. "So, if you see a motorcyclist on the road, don't try to push him over, just wave and smile - we are friendly people."

Pediatric Care Africa has already raised a substantial amount for the two operations that Caleb van Wyk has undergone, as well as his medical treatment after the operations.

Twelve motorcyclists from De Rust and Oudtshoorn joined Hattingh on the ride to George on Sunday, and the group was met by about 30 motorcyclists from the Garden Route at the church. A video clip, received from Caleb's mother, voicing her gratitude to motorcyclists across the country who have been contributing to the fund, was also screened.

After the service, motorcyclists went to the M.O.T.H Outeniqua Shellhole for refreshments and the handing over of the collection tins sent by the other Shellholes. Anyone interested in the various projects run by Pediatric Care Africa can visit their Facebook page.

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