Hillcrest Pharmacist’s Heartbreaking Death in Durban Storm
In a devastating turn of events, Hillcrest pharmacist Vanitha Jeawon was among the latest victims claimed by the severe storm that lashed Durban on Thursday evening. The 54-year-old mother of twin daughters was traveling from her workplace in Hillcrest to her home in Moseley Park, Pinetown, when her car was swept into a river. The storm, which caused widespread flooding and chaos across the city, left many residents in shock, with Jeawon’s tragic death particularly hitting her colleagues and friends hard.
pharmacist Vanitha Jeawon’s vehicle was submerged by the fast-rising waters near Sarnia, an area hit hard by the storm. Rescuers spent several hours searching for her, and her body was recovered the following morning, along with her mangled car, found near Gordon Road. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the devastating power of nature and the loss that can occur during such extreme weather conditions.
Sim Bhengu, Jeawon’s colleague, recalled her as a “lovely person” with an always-present smile. He spoke highly of her ability to be there for everyone, not just as a pharmacist but also as a friend to all those she worked with and helped in her profession. “Everyone’s devastated and heartbroken by what has happened. It is unbelievable,” Bhengu said, reflecting on the deep impact Jeawon had on everyone around her. Her passing has left a void that cannot easily be filled.
Pharmacist Vanitha Jeawon’s Life Remembered by Colleagues
Jeawon, who worked as a pharmacist at Hillcrest’s Clicks store, was widely known for her warm and caring nature. Joan Harvey Chapman, another pharmacist who had worked alongside her, shared how they quickly became friends. “She was never rude to me or any customers. She was always gentle and kind. I am gutted and cannot believe she has gone,” Chapman said, expressing her disbelief at the sudden loss. Their friendship had flourished over shared experiences, especially as they both bonded over the closeness they felt with their daughters and families.
Chapman further described how Jeawon frequently complimented her and made a point to check in on her. “She spoke so highly of her twin girls,” Chapman noted. The two women often talked about their families, with Jeawon fondly speaking of her children, and the connection they shared was built on mutual understanding and kindness.
This loss is especially devastating given the suddenness of the tragedy. Jeawon was an integral part of the team at Clicks, and her absence will be keenly felt by her colleagues. The fact that she went above and beyond in her role, not just as a pharmacist but also as a compassionate friend, has left a lasting impression on all those who had the privilege of working with her.
The Search for Other Victims Continues
In addition to Jeawon, another victim, a 21-year-old woman, was also claimed by the storm. Her body was recovered from a river in Molweni on Saturday, though her identity has not yet been released by the police. The heavy rains that battered KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday caused widespread flooding and mudslides across the region, resulting in significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
The eThekwini Municipality’s search and rescue team was quick to respond, combing the affected areas for more victims. Despite the heroic efforts of the rescue teams, the floodwaters took several lives and left many families devastated by the aftermath. The disaster has drawn attention to the unpredictability and sheer force of nature during extreme weather events.
Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli of KwaZulu-Natal extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during the storm. “It is with a heavy heart that we learned of the devastating heavy rains that have once again impacted our province, resulting in the loss of lives and widespread damage. The loss of life is always a profound tragedy, and we share in your grief,” said Ntuli. His words reflect the collective sadness felt across the province as communities come to terms with the scale of the devastation caused by the storm.
Government Responds to the Flood Disaster
As floodwaters recede and the extent of the damage becomes clearer, the government, alongside municipal authorities, is working tirelessly to provide aid to the affected families. Premier Ntuli assured residents that the necessary support would be provided to those who lost loved ones and those whose homes and belongings were destroyed in the disaster. The government’s disaster management teams, along with local municipalities and other stakeholders, are on the ground offering immediate assistance and assessing the full impact of the storm.
“The loss of life is always a profound tragedy, and we share in your grief,” Ntuli emphasized, reaffirming the government’s commitment to assisting those in need during this difficult time. The search for missing individuals continues, and efforts are being made to ensure that those who have been impacted by the floods receive the help they require as quickly as possible.
Additionally, Premier Ntuli has urged residents to be cautious as the region recovers from the devastating storm. “Please avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, or rivers, and do not attempt to drive through submerged areas. The power of water during heavy rains is unpredictable and can be deadly,” he warned. His message highlights the ongoing risk to public safety, even as recovery efforts intensify in the aftermath of the disaster.
Funeral and Final Goodbyes
Vanitha Jeawon’s funeral is scheduled for Sunday at the Clare Estate Crematorium, where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to say their final goodbyes. The loss of Jeawon has left a significant void in the lives of those who knew her, and her colleagues and friends have expressed their deep sadness and shock at the suddenness of her passing.
Her family, especially her twin daughters, have been left devastated by the loss of their mother. Tributes have poured in from all corners, with many remembering Jeawon for her kindness, warmth, and dedication to her work and her loved ones. The storm that took her life also took the lives of others, but Jeawon’s legacy of kindness and generosity will live on in the memories of those who knew her best.
As the community comes to terms with the tragedy, the message of caution remains clear. The storm has left many families mourning the loss of their loved ones, and the floodwaters are a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of extreme weather events.
