Deon Pienaar

Deon, my friend, my inspiration, my amputee, my double amputee, my special place in my heart friend. It took me longer than a week to get myself into a headspace where I can put my feelings on paper into the right words. Words that can express my total disbelief, my shock, my sadness, and words that can honour and respect you.

No one really knew your real struggle in life, but we all knew you for your friendly personality, your jokes, your positive attitude and all the compliments and praise that you gave every person you met.

For more than 15 years, we’ve known one another; from one amputation, to losing both your legs. We have laughed, we have cried, and we have walked a path lined with deeply-etched memories and wonderful times together.

You have been my rock, my inspiration, and you fueled my appreciation for life and health

Thank you for being there, for drinking with me, eating with me, laughing with me, crying with me, and listening to me.

I can’t believe this day has come. I can’t believe there is a final date on your inspirational, positive life. Forgive me for not having cried over your last day on earth; I have not really accepted this, or come to terms with the big hole in my life, my day-to-day life. My tears are so close, but for some reason I still think you are out there, and I’m waiting for your phone call.

Deon, you will be forever in my thoughts, my memories, and I will forever live with your positive outlook on life that you taught me! I miss you already.