12-33pm
It’s been 5 weeks since the van Breda family were brutally attacked in their home in a residential golf estate outside Stellenbosch. Martin and Theresa van Breda and their older son, Rudi, were killed in the attack. There were two survivors, younger son Henri and only daughter, Marli. They have been kept apart since the attack. News reports say Henri is not allowed near the hospital as it may be too traumatic for Marli to see him. A doctor who examined him said his injuries were self-inflicted. Police are keeping quiet about what is going on. No arrests have been made and no identikits released. Police also are not saying whether Henri has given an official statement to police.
The biggest loser in this whole dreadful story is Marli. She is in hospital and (according to press reports), under police guard with no visitors allowed. The police are hoping to get a statement from her, but with her not speaking, how long should they wait? While 20 year old, lightly injured Henri gets to stay with family, who are giving them their full support, severely injured 16 year old Marli, doesn’t. I find myself thinking it is more than unfair – it is more than unjust – I am thinking it’s cruel – inhumane even. Everything should be done to provide the greatest emotional support for Marli possible and that includes surrounding her with people who love her the most. She needs her closest remaining family members. She’s been without any loved ones for 6 weeks! Having said that, I am sure that, while her uncle or aunts cannot be with her, they are doing everything within their power to ensure she gets the best possible treatment. The investigation is preventing them from being with her, but I don’t think it’s right.
Family spokesperson Ben Rootman says he is hoping there will be a breakthrough in the investigation soon.
In the meantime, on a more positive note, a tree in Stellenbosch has been decorated in honour of Marli. A large Chinese Hackberry tree has been swathed in bright red ribbon. Friends and fellow students write notes to Marli and put them in the folds of the ribbon. Each day they are taken to the hospital. I hope they bring her comfort and understanding that she is much loved and not alone in this ordeal. The tree stands out as a reminder to pray and support Marli…
Sources:
The support for Marli comes from near and far. Friends from across the world are looking for news – trying to find out what exactly happened. Answers are not forth-coming right now.
We can only pray for complete healing for Marli, both physically and emotionally.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
When you think of her, pray for her.
God bless you.
In His Grip,
Helga xx