Nelson Mandela Death: Life Support Turned Off?
Nelson Mandela, 94, is currently receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection that has left his health in serious jeopardy. According to latest reports, Mandela remains on life support while his family prepares for the worst.
Ndileka Manela told Fox News that her grandfather was "critical but stable." He is currently receiving renal dialysis and is on a ventilator to help with his breathing. Mandela's family has been given the option of stopping all treatment, which could lead to his passing.
"He is critical, but has an entire team of doctors, from a cardiac specialist, pulmonary specialist, kidney specialist and a main consultant looking after him," a source in the hospital told The Times of India.
South African President Jacob Zuma visited Mandela on Thursday, after canceling a trip out of the country. He wanted to be in the country if Mandela passed, adding to the growing fear that Mandela's time is limited.
"I am of the view that if Madiba (Mandela) is no longer enjoying life, and is on life support systems, and is not appreciating what is happening around him, I think the good Lord should take the decision to put him out of his suffering," tribal chief leader Phathekile Holomisa said.
"I did speak to two of his family members and, of course, they are in a lot of pain and wish that a miracle might happen, that he recovers again, and he becomes his old self again. But at the same time they are aware there is a limit what miracles you can have," Holomisa added.
Archbishop Thabo Makgoba paid a visit to Mandela and his family, then offered a prayer for them all, asking for a peaceful release for the civil rights leader.
"All of us will end," Makgoba told the Associated Press. "We just want him to be peacefully released, whatever he's feeling at this moment, and to be reunited with his Maker at the perfect time, when God so wills."
