HOPE THE RHINO UNDERGOES RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Cell C has stepped in to help with the reconstructive surgery and recovery of a special South African white rhino who captured the attention of the world.

Hope made global headlines last year when she survived a savage panga attack by poachers who butchered her and left her for dead after brutally hacking off her horn. But this incredible animal with an iron will refused to die.

Suzette van der Merwe, Managing Executive, Cell C Foundation, said: “We were so touched by this story of bravery that Cell C donated R150 000 to Saving the Survivors (STS) to help Hope with all her needs at the recovery facility include reconstructive surgery from the top rhino veterinarian in the world.”The groundbreaking surgery, designed to help close the gaping injury, was performed by wildlife vet Doctor Johan Marais who founded Saving the Survivors in 2012 with the sole purpose of caring for rhino wounded by poachers.

On May 3 this year in Bela Bela in Limpopo, the Saving the Survivors team led by Dr Marais, started with the first phase of the reconstruction procedure. In order for the surgery to be successful, STS imported ABRA technology from Canada. Unfortunately, Hope managed to tear the system out and a second procedure takes place this week.

“Saving the Survivors is delighted with the donation we have received from Cell C. This money will go towards ensuring Hope has the best care possible. Cell C is one of the few South African companies that have helped us financially as most of our donations come from private individuals from around the world. Thank you for putting your hand up and helping us save South Africa’s rhino species – we appreciate it and we are sure Hope does too,” Dr Marais said.

“The plight of Hope has highlighted the need for rhino conservation – she is now famous around the world and her suffering has had a global impact on awareness of the slaughter-for-financial-gain of these majestic animals,” said Van der Merwe. “Cell C is proud to be associated with this initiative. It is our hope that others will join us in helping with Hope’s journey to recovery.”

For more information go to http://savingthesurvivors.org/ Should you wish to join Cell C and make a contribution, Saving the Survivor’s bank account details are:

Saving the Survivors NPC
Bank: First National Bank
Branch Code: 251045
Account Number: 62578499751
Reference: Your name

No donation is too small