Durban storm: Hero medic dies in hospital

Family, friends and emergency services are mourning the death of a local hero today. ER24 paramedic Vicky Govender died in hospital this morning after putting his own life at risk to save others during Tuesday's horrific Durban storm.

ER24 spokesperson Werner Vermaak says the entire company is in shock.

"They place their lives on the line. They go in where the majority of members in the public or general people would not go into. When you are at your worst condition, they are the people that answer the call and go out to assist. They did not think twice to go out and assist people that needed help.

"We are all a big family. We work together, we work with the same passion. It's the same as a branch, as a brother or sister. it's a family member that's been taken away from you," Vermaak says.

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Govender had been stationed at ER24's Highway branch for 15 years. Govender and fellow medic, Tracy Bederson had been responding to a collision on the N2 when they lost control of their ambulance on the flooded roads. They were both rushed to a Toti hospital for further care. Vermaak says condolences have been pouring in for Govender from across the country.

"We have seen condolences from fully qualified paramedics in Johannesburg that said they've trained under him and he made a difference in their lives. Vicky has played a huge role, not only in shaping the outcome of his patients but also shaping the outcome of his students and colleagues."

Vermaak says, Govender's partner Bederson is still receiving treatment in hospital following the crash.

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