A man who was involved in a grueling endurance ride to raise money for burn victims is currently in hospital after being involved in a motorcycle accident near Carnarvon in the Northern Cape.
Jason Kilian tackles “The Epic Ride” on Thursday – an extreme “Iron Butt” challenge. (Photo: Provided)
Jason Kilian, the founder of Modderbok Adventures, was taken by helicopter to a hospital for specialized medical treatment where he is currently being treated.
Kilian has just started The Epic Ride, his ambitious project with which he planned to ride 3 000 miles (about 4 800 km) in three days to raise R250 000 for the Hero Burn Foundation. The organization supports fire victims and their families across South Africa.
According to a recent Facebook post, Kilian had a stable night and is currently under sedation while doctors monitor his condition.
“He had a good night and is stable. Jason did well during the airlift last night and an MRI scan was completed in the early hours of the morning,” the Facebook post said.
“He is currently fully sedated and on a ventilator for support although the doctors say he is also breathing on his own. His vital signs look good, although his blood pressure is slightly low due to the sedation.
“Jason has no fractures, for which we are very grateful. The doctors are currently focusing on his head injury,” the message continues.
The medical team, including a dedicated nurse, is keeping him under strict supervision while a neurosurgeon is expected to provide further information about the MRI results later.
Maroela Media reported earlier that Kilian’s endurance ride was part of a larger mission to raise awareness and raise money for fire victims.
According to Annerie du Plooy, the founder of the Hero Burn Foundation, Kilian has long played an important role in the organisation’s work.
“Jason has been part of the Hero Burn journey for a long time. He is not just a supporter – he is family. His connection with the foundation runs deep, because he understands that it is not just about the physical wounds, but about people, dignity and the difficult road to recovery.”
Du Plooy says the money collected through such projects helps fire victims with basic, yet critical needs.
“Many of our burn survivors spend months or even years in the hospital. It is crucial for me that they have direct contact with their family, because that support is indispensable for the healing process,” she said.
Although Kilian’s ride was suddenly interrupted, supporters encourage the public to continue contributing to the cause for which he was riding.
“Jason is one of the most resilient people I know. He is strong and he fights,” reads a message from his supporters.
“Jason is loved for the way he lives his life – always giving, always willing to help and always there for others. Now it’s our turn to be there for him.”