Louise says that her son had a caring heart for people and animals, especially those who suffered. (Photo: Provided)
Louise and Wayne Fick, a couple from Mareetsane in the North West, prayed for a miracle for 12 years. Their prayers were answered with the birth of their son Daniel nine years ago.
However, their little boy died in a car accident on Tuesday evening, a few kilometers before their hometown.
Daniel and his father were on their way home after a rugby match in Buhrmansdrif when a vehicle with very sharp lights came from the front on the R375 road and obstructed Wayne’s vision. He did not see the donkey cart with wood on the road, swerved too late and crashed into it.
Louise told Maroela Media on Thursday that an ambulance happened to drive past the scene and hurriedly took Daniel to the nearest hospital for treatment. However, he died there.
“Unfortunately, my child was very hurt… It was too late and it was not in our hands. He did what he had to do in life.”
Wayne stopped before the accident to pick up some of his employees and take them home. They and Wayne were unharmed.
“Wayne and Daniel had a wonderful time on Tuesday afternoon after the game. They went for a haircut, went shopping and ate at McDonald’s before returning to Mareetsane. Our son drove with him that night to take the employees home, something he doesn’t actually do.
“Usually Wayne drops him off at home first, but Daniel insisted on riding with his dad,” said Louise.
Daniel before his last rugby match. (Photo: Provided)
Daniel was born in 2016 thanks to in vitro fertilization (IVF), an event that filled not only his parents, but also countless others with joy. Now this community mourns together over the loss of beloved Daniel.
Louise says that after she found out she was pregnant, the community made it clear that Daniel “is everyone’s baby. That’s why everyone mourns and grieves for him”.
She describes her son as a miracle who was “too perfect for this world”.
“Daniel had a short life of nine years, but had a big impact on people’s lives. He was a smart person who always did his part and also had a lot of respect for others, from old to young.”
Louise and Wayne Fick prayed for a miracle for 12 years. Their prayers were answered with the birth of their son Daniel nine years ago. (Photo: Provided)
Louise says that her son had a caring heart for people and animals, especially those who suffered.
“It upset him terribly when anyone suffered. We had to find a way for him to have an outlet for this stuff. Ever since he was in Gr. R, every year on his birthday he asked his friends not to give him presents, but instead to donate food to the local Animal Protection Society (SPBA).”
Louise says this gesture has become an annual institution and has expanded over the years. She clings to these moments and says they sum up her child’s heart “perfectly”.
“We are still quite shocked and traumatized. It still feels so unreal, but we are surrounded by love and people.”
A cross has since been erected at the scene of the accident for Daniel. (Photo: Provided)
(Photo: Provided)
Buhrmansdrif Primary School is expected to hold a consolation service for Daniel on Friday.
“We as family and friends will hold a celebration of life for him on Saturday. We intend to serve no funeral food, but rather popcorn and swirled ice cream – all the things Daniel loved,” says Louise.
Louise and Daniel. (Photo: Provided)
The staff and management committee of the Animal Protection Society in Mafikeng expressed their deepest condolences to Daniel’s loved ones.
“We know that no words can help you during this tragic time, but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your generosity towards the Mafikeng SPCA, and for always bringing Daniel with you. In time, we will do something special at our association, in memory of Daniel,” reads the SPCA’s message.
