Tributes continue to pour in for former Kaya Fm presenter Dr. Sindi Van Zyl. Her family released the statement confirming the passing of Dr. Sindi this afternoon. The 45-year-old passed away after battling COVID-19 for weeks.
“The Van Zyl family humbly thank everyone who stood together with them recently to help raise funds for Sindi’s hospital bill, in addition to the national outpour of prayer, love, and support for her. It is however with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of our wife, mother, sister, and daughter Sindisiwe Van Zyl (45),” the statement read.
According to the statement, Dr. Sindi passed away this morning, the 10th of April in hospital.
She tested positive to COVID-19 at the beginning of this year, she was then admitted to hospital in February due to trouble breathing.
Last month her family released a statement urging South Africans to come through and help them raise funds for her medical bills.
The statement revealed that it cost about R100 000 weekly for her to be on the ventilator.
“Dr. Sindi cannot breathe on her own yet, and the cost of needing to be on the ventilator alone is around a hundred and fifty thousand Rands per week. She has suffered several complications related to a long stay in ICU and we need more funds to pay for her continued stay in hospital until her lungs can cope,” the statement read.
South Africans and some of the biggest brands in the country responded to a call to save Dr. Sindi’s life under #GiftSindiALife.
Woolworths SA then announced that it contributed R100 000 for her: “Dr. Sindi is part of our wollies family and we want nothing more than to see her back to full health. We will donate R100K towards #GiftSindiLife and we wish her a speedy recovery,” tweeted Woolworths SA. Over one million have been raised to date.
This incredible woman has always been nothing but kind to all, & has actively supported countless causes & small businesses including my own. You'll rarely encounter a human with a bigger heart. Please let's do what we can to return @sindivanzyl the love❤ https://t.co/auxfRaQEx4pic.twitter.com/uPEqJ0qa8n
— Mr. Buns/Buns Out/Abuti Buns/Lebunza/Breadwinner (@MapsMaponyane) April 2, 2021
Dr. Sindi has been described as a selfless and loving person. Here are some of the reactions from Twitter.
Fashion designer Thula Sindi tweeted: “If the Covid-19 vaccines had been here in time most likely Dr. Sindi as a health care professional would have likely been vaccinated and her life saved. This is the true cost of the incompetence of our leadership. I'm sad and angry that someone so loving and selfless is gone.”
Lady Zamar: “this is so sad #RIPDRSINDI Dr. Sindi was like a Twitter mom to so many. I never got to know her personally but her life had an impact on mine she was a blessing to everyone who interacted with her in real life & social media. her life was precious. She’ll be missed.”
Minister Fikile Mbalula: “Dr. Sindi’s passing leaves all of us cold and sad. She lived an exemplary life of giving, selflessness, and grace. To her family, especially her kids she - condolences. We share your loss.”
“The family humbly requests that you respect their need for privacy as they go through this difficult period of grieving, and ask that you keep them in your prayers.”
