Paraplegic man drowns at Canal Walk

A paralysed man has drowned at Canal Walk after his wheelchair fell into the water while he was trying to feed the ducks.

The man who lived at a Cape Town nursing home died at the Canal Walk Shopping Centre yesterday when his wheelchair toppled into the canal from a walkway outside the centre.

Former Marion Island team leader Graham Clark had been a resident of Eric Miles Cheshire Home in Milnerton for 33 years after suffering a stroke in 1982 which left him paralysed from the mouth down, reports IOL.

According to the home’s

general manager Alet Bosman, Clark and his long-time carer Lesley spotted ducks in the canal and Clark wanted to feed them.

He sent Lesley to the specially equipped van to fetch WeetBix they had just bought.

As Lesley was returning, he heard a splash and rushed back.

He immediately jumped into the water and managed to pull Clark, from the water.

Lesley received trauma counselling after the tragedy and Bosman has commended him for “adding value” to Clarke’s life.

The Eric Miles Cheshire Home posted a tribute to Clark on its Facebook page.

Shona Mcdonald posted: “Graham played a major role in influencing and inspiring the launch and establishment of Interface.

“Memories of his determination, outstanding sense of humour and red roses will remain with me forever. Respect Graham Respect.”