AFRICA MIRROR REPORTER
WITH song, bubbly, carefully selected powerful words, against the reflection of pink deco, her favourite colour, family and close friends celebrated the life of one of Southern Africa’s most loved doctors – Sindi van Zyl – who succumbed to COVID-19 on Saturday.
Speakers at the memorial service held in Johannesburg today described Van Zyl as a loving, giving and fun person, who did not sleep enough and spent all her time attending to the needs of those who needed her. Speakers also called a “lover of things, a fashionista, a cheerleader, family doctor, activist, radio personality.
So concerned and dedicated was Van Zyl to the well-being of her patients that even when she was in hospital, fighting for her life, she was still working, referring the patients to other doctors so that they could get help.
Nyaradzo Muguti, a friend of 31 years, said in addition to being humble, fearless, unapologetic about her stance and beliefs, Van Zyl loved designer brands and designer perfume. She also loved music – from classics to house. “She did many things that made her happy. She lived her life to the full. She was here to serve. She was here on a purpose. And she was on the clock. She gave to everyone,’ she said.
Dr Lerato Masemola described Van Zyl as a selfless caring doctor who spent hours on social media, dispensing medical advice to those in need. “Dr Sindi has left a little bit herself in every person that she has helped, every life that she has touched,” Masemola said.
There was a special moment, during the service, where Van Zyl’s children known as the “Caramellos” paid tribute to their mom.
The youngest, Emmanuel “Mani”, said his mom was “powerful, strong and good at many things.” His sister, Nandi said, among others, her mom loved ‘God, Google and Louis Vutton…”
Van Zyl’s father Muchadei Masunda spoke warmly about Van Zyl’s childhood, her earlier dream to be a ballet dancer and her journey through media school. Musanda said his daughter was first and foremost a humble being and an African.
Dr Cephas Chikanda, a friend and colleague, said among Van Zyl’s qualities the ones that stood out were that: “She had a genuine interest in people. She was gentle, authentic and relatable. She shared herself and was generous. She was a freak of nature.”
