A Little Help Can Go A Long Way

A passionate disability rights campaigner and horseracing fan who enjoyed an unforgettable day at Hollywoodbets Greyville in March 2024, when he met legendary South African golfer Gary Player, is now appealing for help with much-needed surgery.

A Back A Buddy fundraising page has been created for Amanzimtoti resident Reece Smith, who was born with the rare disability arthrogryposis and has lived with scoliosis throughout his life. His condition has deteriorated in recent years, and without surgery, he faces the prospect of serious long-term respiratory problems and inability to sit properly.

Reece was initially scheduled to undergo surgery at King Dinuzulu Hospital in Durban, but concerns about the risks involved led him to seek treatment in the private sector.  After researching his options, he consulted Cape Town-based Prof Robert Dunn in June and believes the specialist can help prevent further complications.

Although a detailed quotation for the procedure is not yet available, the costs are expected to top R500,000, and Reece says any donation would make a valuable contribution towards the surgery.

His memorable meeting with Gary Player came about before the golfing legend’s star runner, Double Grand Slam, won the Grade 3 Umzimkhulu Stakes as a three-year-old.

Player promised Reece his trophy if the filly won. Double Grand Slam duly obliged, and Player kept his word, presenting Reece with the trophy.

Candice and Tammy Dawson’s smart filly, Reece’s Wish (Vercingetorix – Rathmor Stud and Gary Player), was named after the likeable young man, and part-owner Larry Nestadt said that a portion of her earnings goes to Reece to help with his needs. Nestadt and Player have also contributed to the fundraising page.

Those wishing to help Reece can visit his Back A Buddy fundraising page, to give him the opportunity to undergo the surgery he needs.