A young mom from Bonteheuwel has returned home after surviving a gang shooting last month in which two bullets ripped through her abdomen.
After spending three weeks at Groote Schuur Hospital undergoing various procedures to repair the damage caused to her intestines, Fatiema Boyce, 27, has finally been reunited with her seven-year-old daughter, Kashiefa.
On 19 September, Fatiema was caught in the crossfire by rival gangs on the corner of Bonteheuwel Avenue and Terblans Road.
Her aunt Ilhaam, 42, ran to her aid after hearing the skote and was forced to lie over her to protect her as skollies continued to shoot.
Ilhaam says the first thing Faiema did when she got home on Wednesday was to hug her young daughter.
“She had three operations and was in Groote Schuur Hospital for three weeks. There were many times when the doctors almost lost her but they managed to revive her every time,” says the aunt.
Fatiema and aunt Ilhaam
“The two bullets exploded in her stomach and a part of her intestines had to be cut out. “Luckily her kidneys were OK and unaffected. She also got an infection which is what the doctors were dreading.
“She will now have to use a colostomy bag for the next year or so.”
Fatiema says she is happy to be home and grateful for the prayers from her community.
“When I came home, I just wanted to see my daughter. I am happy to be alive and want to say thank you to everyone who prayed for me,” she says.