Ehben Muller was in severe pain but remained calm throughout. His attitude impressed the medical team so much that they honored him with a special medal. (Photo: Provided)
A twelve-year-old boy received a medal for bravery at the Netcare Olivedale Hospital in Johannesburg, after he showed extraordinary courage during treatment for a knee injury in the emergency department.
Ehben Muller’s mother, Adri Muller, says the incident started early in the morning when Ehben woke everyone in the house because of the immense pain he was in.
“Ehben woke us up at 05:00 on Monday in severe pain and very anxious because his knee dislocated while he was sleeping,” she says.
The family called an ambulance and paramedics decided to take him to the emergency department at Netcare Olivedale Hospital for specialist treatment to prevent further damage.
Ehben suffered a dislocation of the left patella (kneecap). The injury was treated under anesthesia so that the procedure could be done safely and comfortably.
Ehben was in severe pain, but remained calm throughout. His attitude impressed the medical team so much that they honored him with a special medal.
The emergency department has a tradition of honoring children who receive treatment with bravery. Community members donate the medals to turn what can be a frightening hospital experience into a positive memory.
However, this was not Ehben’s first knee disc dislocation. He suffers from a condition where the kneecaps sit higher than normal and increases the risk of repeated dislocations.
“He is very dedicated to his recovery,” says his mother.
“He goes to physiotherapy, works with a biokineticist and even goes to the gym to strengthen the muscles around his knees. Keeping him fit, active and healthy is our priority. He never complains, even when the exercises are challenging and painful.
“Visits to the emergency department can be terrifying for children,” says Eugene Ferreira, general manager of Netcare Olivedale Hospital.
“Recognizing their courageous actions helps to make the experience less intimidating and celebrates the remarkable resilience that young patients often show. Ehben’s bravery was truly inspiring to witness.”