South African actor David Rees, who is fondly known as Chris Welman on the Afrikaans soapie 7de Laan, has suffered a devastating heart attack.
On the soapie’s official page on Friday, BackaBuddy posted a plea for funds to help pay for the actor’s medical bills.
The statement said he is in need of double bypass surgery, which places not only a physical strain but also an emotional and financial burden on his family.
The news comes just after an episode on Wednesday showing his character being attacked in the arcade, where two men apply a defibrillation shock to his chest, sending Chris to hospital.
BackaBuddy posted: “We come to you with a plea from the depths of our hearts. In this moment, we cannot ignore the desperate situation his family now faces.
“The weight of overwhelming medical expenses has fallen upon their shoulders, hindering their ability to fully support David’s recovery.
“Unfortunately, David does not have medical aid, making this already daunting journey even more challenging. We humbly ask you to extend a helping hand. No contribution is too small or too large, every act of generosity counts.
“Your financial support will alleviate the immense strain on David’s family, providing them with the breathing room they so desperately need. We urge you to show David and his family that they are not alone.
“Let us come together as a community, as fans, and as friends. Let us rally behind David Rees and his loved ones, offering our support in whatever way we can. Through unity, we can work miracles and transform lives.”
Rees also played the role of Nick Naude for 18 years in the long-running soapie Egoli.
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