Collaborators from South Africa have supported Kwayotho star L'vovo Derrango, raising over 280,000 rand after his emotional story of surviving a stroke, financial difficulties, and ongoing recovery went viral.
Story of Health and Hardship
After his story touched the hearts of South Africans, donations for Kwayotho artist Tokozani 'L'vovo Derrango' Ndlovu exceeded 280,000 rand. The musician openly shared how he survived a stroke and subsequent financial problems.
This music veteran recently shared details of his life-altering event in 2022 during an interview on Gagasi FM with renowned host Linda 'Mr Magic' Sibiya. He described falling during a performance at an event in Ndvedwe, north of Durban, after experiencing severe headaches.
He recalled: 'I think I performed three songs, and then I felt dizzy. After that, I couldn't feel my left leg. It felt like my leg didn't exist.'
Initially, he thought the pain was related to hip braces fitted to him in 2014. He was taken to Victoria Mxenge Hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with dangerously high blood pressure.
The musician noted: 'Because of the lifestyle we lead, we don't get check-ups. I remember being told my pressure was 250. I don't even know what pressure that is.'
Over the weekend, videos of his interview with Sibiya and another appearance at Bishop Wusi Dube's church in Etkutwini became popular on social media. Apparently, the emotional artist fought back tears while reflecting on his recovery journey.
Fundraising Campaign
Among those moved by his story was event organizer and social media personality Yenziwe Kiniso Nzimande, who launched a fundraiser to cover L'vovo's medical expenses. She emphasized that the artist himself did not request financial aid.
Nzimande wrote: 'Please know that L'vovo did not ask for donations. Many people were touched by the conversation he had with Mr Magic, so we decided to come together to support him.'
She reported that L'vovo continues to recover from both a serious car accident he experienced several years ago and the stroke.
She added: 'He is recovering, but one of his arms still functions improperly. Because of this, he cannot fully return to the stage, and even when he performs, he gets very tired quickly.'
Nzimande urged: 'If you wish to donate, please do so voluntarily. Your contribution will help cover his physiotherapy and further recovery costs.'
Following this, she disclosed the musician's bank details, which generated a huge response from supporters. At the time of publication, donations reached 280,072.88 rand.
On Wednesday, she stated that the donation amount could reach 300,000 rand by evening, sharing a screenshot of L'vovo's WhatsApp showing his bank account balance.
Life Changes
In a statement, L'vovo said he never imagined how quickly his life could change, but he believes God gave him a second chance. He recounted: 'I suffered financially because I wasn't working and couldn't be hired. I returned home. I was scared to go out and show myself to people. My real friends came to cook food for me and take care of me. I received many words of support, but many abandoned me,' said the musician, who was born in Newcastle.
Despite the difficulties, he noted that this experience transformed his outlook on life. 'Now I am living a different life. I eat well, rest, take care of myself, and I am grateful for every day God gives me. I am finally living the way I should have before I got sick.'
