Really? Have you people nothing better to do than make up disgustingly pathetic stories as this, I am sure if he passed away the whole world would have known it as he is an iconic man. Leave him alone, let him have his own time. When he is ready, and when it is his time he will go rest in a better place. Just let the man enjoy his remaining days in this world, get something better to do. If you should go look up on the Internet "Mandela dies" it is scary and disgusting to see the results, to see what this world as well as humanity has come to. How do you think his family must feel when reading news like that (which i must add ain't even true). He hasn't even passed away and his funeral arrangements are already being made. That is just not right. It is worse than vultures waiting for food.
Madiba is a decent, good mannered human being, who deserves respect, support, love and all that is good
News as of 28/06/2013 10:44
Mandela is still critically ill but stable and he still receives a lot of support from people all over the world. One person who attended to him in hospital at an earlier time can clearly remember how much respect he had for himself as well as others. Madiba has an arrangement of notes and flowers on the sidewalk at his home in Houghton.
On a more serious note note a dozen police officers caught a man who flew a remote control helicopter over and around the hospital were Madiba is currently being treated. The helicopter also had a camera so don't tell me this was just coincidence.
And on a funny note a sea slug was named after him to honour him. According to Marine biologists it is an honour to have species of organism named after you. In 2002, a species of spider, found near Cape Town, was named Singafrotypa Mandela. In the United Kingdom, at the British Institute of Physics at Leeds University, there is a nuclear particle named the "Mandela Particle". In Columbia, there is a tree named after Madiba, while in Singapore the Paravanda Nelson Mandela is an orchid. South Africa has a striking deep red Protea called Madiba. And the list goes on.
News as of 29 June 2013 21h54:
Mr. Madiba is still in a critical condition - let us all just pray that he will pull through.
Obama plan to take a journey down to Robben Island in respects of Mr. Madiba.Tourists arrive by the same method used by prisoners, on ferries that ply across the often moody Atlantic Ocean, a journey that Mandela first made in chains.Obama also made contact with Madiba's wife and gave the following encouraging words: "I expressed my hope that Madiba draws peace and comfort from the time that he is spending with loved ones, and also expressed my heartfelt support for the entire family as they work through this difficult time, and according to news reports he has also met with the Madiba family.
The guy that was caught last night for flying the helicopter over the Pretoria hospital were Mr. Madiba is being treated has apologised and has been released. According to him he meant no harm and didn't think that he was doing anything wrong. He also saw a business opportunity and grabbed it with both hands. in my opinion" money is the biggest evil that are amongst us, people get killed for petty change. It really is disgusting. All the crime and murders and robberies etc just for a piece of paper that can be burnt, torn and destroyed. Me personally, i think a persons life is worth more than a stupid piece of paper.
He is still receiving cards and gifts and lots of support a medical student also said:
"It will be very heavy if he goes, the country will
come to a halt, but if an old man becomes this sick for this long, then usually
it is the end of it." Why can people just not stop being negative. Former president FW de Klerk cut his trip from Europe short to lend understanding and support to the Madiba family. They will arrive back in South Africa tomorrow.
Madiba has a incredible fight and battle for his life. He is a strong man, a worthy leader. He is South Africa's own Diana.
News as of 30/06/2013 23:39
Mr. Madiba is still in hospital, in a critical but stable condition (I really hope and pray that his condition improves).
Outside of the hospital Mr. Madiba are still receiving gifts, cards, balloons and even a group of bikers stopped by to show their love and support. It are really good to see that there are still love and caring in people's hearts. Sometimes it takes a serious situation to provoke those feelings, and show that humans still has some humanity.
Desmond Tutu said that Mr. Madiba is an "incredible, incredible person" who was still uniting South Africans from the hospital bed where he is fighting for his life, this time in prayer. A true legend!!
Obama fulfilled his promise and visited Robben Island and stood in the same cell as the former president Mr. Nelson Mandela. According to him, he was deeply humbled. He also took the time to write a note in the visitors book saying: "On
behalf of our family we're deeply humbled to stand where men of such
courage faced down injustice and refused to yield," "The
world is grateful for the heroes of Robben Island, who remind us that
no shackles or cells can match the strength of the human spirit." Obama did not want to visit Mr. Madiba in the hospital because he "was afraid to disturb his peace".In Durban hundreds of people gathered and held a prayer meeting for Mr. Madiba.
Now this is really something spectacular which actually brought goosebumps to my skin, just once again to show what an iconic legend Mr. Madiba is. Britain has asked to hold a memorial service for former president Nelson Mandela at Westminster Abby when the time comes - the first for an African and non-British citizen. The queen herself asked if she could join the memorial service if South Africa would agree. Me personally i do not have a problem, the only thing once again is that people are carrying on like Mr. Madiba is at the edge of a cliff, whom will be falling off any time soon. Some people even talks as if he has passed on already. Now that makes me mad!
I read about all the stories of people who had the privilege to meet Mr. Mandela, and i just wish that i had an opportunity.
On a last note, some believe that Mr. Nelson Mandela "cannot let go" because his spirit is deeply troubled by the feuding in his family. The thing that i don't understand is in time of need family should be stuck together like glue in support, but no 99% of the time family would much rather fight each other and tear each other apart more than stand together. I really don't understand.
News as of 01/07/2013
Mr. Madiba is still fighting for is life. We definitely have a fighter with a fighters soul. I have this motto in life, actually one of my favourite sayings: Never ever give up, you are never beaten until YOU decide you are - tekken. And that is definitely the situation here, Mr. Madiba wont give up. he will not let anything beat him. 
Obama was sitting in Mr. Madibas private office signing a book for him. He is signing a copy of his book Conversations With Myself for Mandela. I pray
that Madiba (Nelson Mandela) gets better so he can see this photo and the book.Fifa also send a gift to Mr. Madiba, reminding him that he football community is thinking of him.
In Los Angeles Don Cheadle dedicated the BET awards to Mr. Madiba - "We want to take a moment and send our prayers and thoughts to a man who literally changed the world," he said.. WOW, have you seen how far this man has gone throughout the world. He really is extraordinary!
The support Mr. Madiba is receiving outside of the hospital is still something magical. People are singing, dancing and some even crying. People all over the world are praying for him, from all religion, ages and races. Some people even travelled from other provinces to show their respects. I really can not mention enough what a remarkable person he is. The loss of him, would be the loss of a hero. Saps also sang and prayed for Mr. Madiba. Please get better soon Tata
News as of 02/07/2013
Mr. Madiba has been in hospital for more than three weeks now, however, the only progress reports we really receive is that he is critical but stable. The support Mr. Madiba are receiving is still extraordinary. Everyone is praying and crying together as one strong nation. ANC national officials and staff holds a prayer service for ailing former president Nelson Mandela at the Luthuli house. It is amazing how Madiba's "support wall" has grown, each and every day there are more and more gifts, cards, flowers, balloons etc. There was another message scribbled on Venezuela's national flag reading: "Venezuela loves
you Madiba." The people of South Sudan also left a message: "We pray for a hero, our man Madiba to be out of this sickness with all
the power from Allah the almighty."South Africa's national football and rugby teams will play on the same day at the former World Cup showpiece stadium in Soweto to Honor Nelson Mandela, bringing together the country's two most popular sports that once portrayed its racial divisions.
The old FNB was where Mandela made his first speech in Johannesburg and held his first major rally after his release from prison in 1990. Soccer City was where Mandela made his last public appearance at the 2010 football World Cup final, the first time the tournament was held in Africa.
Just on a more serious note: i have read something that really disturbs me, something that is really selfish and just gets to me in the worst way possible. Since Madiba was hospitalised, shops started cashing in big time from his merchandise. Some shops ask up to R570 for his book, others will sell shirts of him for anything between R240 - R350 even up to R700. This really gets to me, once again we are back on the money subject. How can people take a situation like this and turn it in to a money making frenzy. Really!? This sickens me! One person even said Mandela pays. No... no... no!!! What has this world come to? I can not believe what i saw, i can not believe what i read! Humanity is cruel, greedy and selfish as hell. There's a saying that goes you can't build happiness on someone Else's suffering. So really, I wonder... Are these money making fools happy? Do they feel good about making money from a critical situation? Urgh! Anyway moving on swiftly. A large truck blocked of President street in Johannesburg for a prayer service. The launch of so-called smart ID cards and the opening of a new bridge are among activities set to take place on Mandela Day. People showed up at the hospital with 10 litters of holy water to pray for Mr. Madiba. Cosatu also paid their respects to Mr. Maiba. Hang in there. You are a very strong man.
Sincere apologies for the delay in updates, my finger ended up in a food processor making it a tad bit harder to type or well.... do anything!!
News as of 03/07/2013
Mr. Madiba is still in a critical but stable condition in hospital.
Support, love and care still streaming in, not only from all over South Africa, but from all over the world. Some people even uses their holiday time to pay respects to our ailing former president. Once again various people see this as a money making opportunity. There's a man standing outside the hospital with a camera and portable printer, taking photographs of people and then printing them out then and there. Why is the world and humanity so controlled by money? It disgusts me!! The support Mr. Madiba receives is quite remarkable a Jewish school went to his Houghton home, and sang a song in Hebrew to wish peace upon him. Grade three pupils sang the national anthem. Even in his darkest hours he still remains a symbol of unity all over the world. DA leader Mrs. Helen Zille also took the time to visit the hospital and pay her respects to the biggest icon we ever had. If you wonder why i have never 
before mention anything of the happenings with Mr. Madiba's grandson Mandla Mandela. Well the answer is quite simple: He is a disgrace and embarrassment and quite frankly, not worthy of my time or energy. Former president Nelson Mandela's health is "perilous", according to an
affidavit filed in the Eastern Cape High Court by more than a dozen members of
his family, now at a time like this Mandla wants to start family feuds. In My opinion sickness and death are supposed to bring families closer together, not tear them apart. He saw a media opportunity and he grabbed it with both hands. In my opinion he did it at this time just because he knew the everything and everyone who had something to do with Mr. Madiba would fall under the lime light, which places so much stress on Mr. Madiba himself as well as the rest of the family. Mr. Madiba needs love, rest and support, not feuds and stress. Its a disgrace if you ask me. I really hope and pray that Mr. Madiba will make a miraculous recovery and that he will live to be much older than a hundred years old. News as of 04/07/2013
Former president Nelson Mandela's wife Graça Machel has spoken about her husband's condition, saying he is "sometimes uncomfortable" but is "fine".
Today was quite outside of the hospital, however, I do really think that Mr. Madiba remains in the heart as well as the mind of all people.
Some poeple stopped and prayed for Mr. Madiba others just went on with their daily routines.
Mr. Madiba is still in a critical but stable condition. I still don't understand how those two words can be used in one positive sentence.
President Jacob Zuma also paid a visit to Mr. Madiba.
Acoording to some Mr. Madiba may pass away, but his legacy will never die, and i fully agree on that statement. Everything he did throughout his life was for everyone else but himself. He is the most unselfish person I have ever come across.
The 1995 World Cup winning Springbok captain Francois Pienaar also paid tribute to former president Nelson Mandela, whom has played his role, according to Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini.
The ANC woman league as well as the SA council of churches also went to pray for Mr. Madiba. Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane also joined the group, who were singing in the street.
Now this really saddens me: Doctors treating Nelson Mandela said he was in a "permanent vegetative state" and advised his family to turn off his life support machine. It can never be easy for any person to make that decision, a life changing decision, a decision between life and death. I really hold Mr. Madiba's family in my thought and prayers as I know I will never be able to make that decision. I saw an article just now on someone saying that Mr. Madiba who is old and had his full life should be taken off life support, as he only takes up space and if a young child who has its full life ahead of them needs a bed or a ventilator machine, they could much rather use it. Who the hell do you think you are to make that sort of remarks/opinions, what ever you call it. Who are you to decide who lives and who dies? Who are you to decide that one persons life is valued more that another persons? You are an absolute disgrace. In my opinion everyone deserves a fair fighting chance in life. Yes, Mr. Madiba is on life support, and yes he might be in a critical condition, but who are you to think that you know that he might still make a miraculous recovery? Miracles are possible. They do happen. I just really hope you go read your pathetic little article again and realise what you said.!
News as of 05/07/2013
Mr. Madiba is still in a critical but stable condition, however according to doctors his chances of survival are slim and how long he still lives is a decision resting in his family's hands. According to doctors it is almost impossible to wean an elderly person of a ventilator machine. Denis Goldberg, one of the men who was convicted with Mandela, told AFP after visiting him on Monday: "He is clearly a very ill man, but he was conscious and he tried to move his mouth and eyes when I talked to him." He has basically confirmed that former president Nelson Mandela is not in a vegetative state, as claimed in recent court papers. So who is thumb sucking and who is lying to the whole world? Nelson Mandela's daughter Makaziwe Mandela was also seen at the hospital today visiting with her father. Granddaughters Zaziwe Dlamini-Manaway and Swati Dlamini also arrived to visit. 15 years ago Mr. Madiba visited a young boy in hospital called Nelson. He was dying of brain cancer. Mr. Madiba said to the boy: "If your spirit is not optimistic, your morale is not high, medicine is not very effective,". The boy unfortunately died within three months from the visit. Mr. Madiba being sick in hospital has still united people from all over the world. It really is sad and it gets sadder as each passing day goes by due to the fact that his chances of survival are slimming more and more and more.
News as of 06/07/2013
Mr. Madiba is still in a critical but stable condition. Mr. Madiba stood for more than just being the president, he stood for human rights values as well as justice to the people. The news on Mr. Madiba as well as his health dies down more and more with each passing day. I have heard some rumors of people being scared of Mandela passing, simply because no one knows what to expect. No one knows whats going to happen. There has been rumors of wars, killing sprees etc, all we can really hope and pray for is that the peace will continue as this is what he would want. There has been plenty of prayers, and tributes. The support and love was extra-ordinary. In my heart I really hope and pray that South Africa will continue to stand together in the worst of worst times still to come.
News as of 07/07/2013
Graça Machel, Mr. Madiba's wife has been offering constant support to her husband, she has been at his bedside more that anywhere else and has been emotionally very stable - it takes a strong woman to keep it all together in a time such as this. She also sleeps in a chair next to his bed and very seldom leaves his bedside, she did not even leave his bedside to meet with president Obama last week. It is also their 15th anniversary this month. The support outside the hospital are still overwhelming, quite at times but overwhelming. Many still see Madiba as the father of the nation and are constantly praying for him. in a recent prayer session: "God will restore you...do not worry about the mountain you are facing," Hess
said after reading a verse from the book of Isaiah. "God is in control whatever the situation. The apartheid government could not
kill him...the apartheid government killed many of our leaders like Steve Biko but they could not kill Mandela
because God is in control."Madiba is a strong man still fighting for his life as he is, but his wife, I take my hat of to her as it takes a remarkable woman to support her husband the way this woman supports her husband. I can only imagine how hard and tiring it must be to see the person you love the most, the person you gave your whole heart and soul to, the person you dedicated your whole life to deteriorating more and more with every passing second ant there aint a single thing she can do about it, but over love, unconditional love and support.
News as of 08/07/2013
News as of 09/07/2013
Former president Nelson Mandela is still in a critical but stable condition in hospital. National Freedom Party leader Zanele KaMagwaza Msibi paid a visit to Mr. Madiba, "Former president Nelson Mandela is the father of the nation and I am going there to wish him a speedy recovery on behalf of my political party," Msibi said in a statement. "We pray that God keeps him for the next few years as the nation and the world still has a lot to learn from him." In Durban a group of people from all ages decided to put a "legacy lock" on a fence in an attempt to keep the Madiba legacy alive. The fence belongs to eThekwini Metro, and although they don't have official permission as of yet they still went ahead with the plan. I take my hat of toward people who show courage like that. Rugby players from Kings College in Wimbledon, London also came to pay their respects to our own legend. The players had no idea how this situation really affected South Africa and some even said they didn't care until they saw the messages left for him. Everybody wishes him a speedy recovery but then again everyone is scared of how people will react after his death. Ndaba Mandela Mr. Madiba's grandson says that the world should not be saddened about his current condition, but they should rather celebrate that he is still with us. The AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo also came to pay his respects to Madiba (quite a busy day outside the hospital as well as all over the world). I wonder if Madiba realises how big of an idol he is!!! Earlier, Mandela's ex-wife Winnie
Madikizela-Mandela, daughter Makaziwe
Mandela, and Bathembu chief Bovulengwe Mfundo Mtirara also arrived at the
hospital. This man has done something quite remarkable not only for South Africa, but for people all over the world. He is a true idol, a true legend. He is loved by many, and admired by even more. News as of 10/07/2013
Mr. Madiba is still in a critical but stable condition, however I do have some good news: 1. Madiba is responding good to the treatment that they are giving him. 2. Madiba is conscious and he recognises his visitors as said by AbaThembu king Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, though he could not talk he made some gestures of recognition and also move his eyes when being talked to. Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo travelled all the way from Cape town to visit Mr. Madiba. Madiba is also attached to many tubes etc. Once again i just want to re-assure his family he is definitely in the hearts and prayers of all South Africans. I have personally gone through a similar situation with my mother being attached to tubes and pipes all over the show and its not only heart breaking, but heart numbing. I have deepest sympathy. Now doctors cancel out the option to turn of Mr. Madiba's life support machine's, unless off course there are serious organ failure, which we pray to God will not be the case. This really saddens me, a few days ago doctors advised his family to turn of his life support, due to the fact that they thought he was not going to pull through, however if the family decided to turn of life support he might have been dead by now, thank goodness they decided to stick it through and fight for him and his life, now look he is also making remarkable recovery. I really don't think doctors should advice people to turn of someone they Love's machines, unless of course they are brain dead and not responding to anything whats so ever, it is cruel and unasked for. Thank you Mandela family for not giving up on Madiba and for fighting for him, when he could not fight for himself. President Zuma also took the time to visit Madiba today. Qunu residents are ready to rent out their houses and their horses when Mandela is being buried there. Really!? The man is still ALIVE! Why are everyone only expecting the worst or only seeing this as a money making strategy? Why don't people focus on what they have. There are two facts in life 1. People are blind to the obvious, to what is right in front of them and people are blind to their own blindness. Some people in Qunu are already "revamping" their houses for if the time of the funeral comes. People sicken me. Really!
News as of 11/07/2013
Denis Goldberg thinks that British intelligence operatives spied on Mr. Madiba before he was arrested. He had a suspicion there was a British intelligence agent in the nearby caravan park. At first they all thought he was a bird watcher as he would climb up high in to the trees with his binoculars. President Zuma visited with Madiba again today for the second day in a row, is it something to be suspicious about or just support? Mandela is still responding to the treatment he is getting, but is still critical but stable. George Bizos has said in a statement that he can not accept the fact that Madiba might pass away in the near future. Ahmed Kathrada, a warhorse of the anti-apartheid struggle also spend some time with Madiba and in his words: All the years that we knew him, we knew him, somebody who was very conscious of his health, somebody who exercised in and outside of jail, regularly, and here you see a person who's different. A shell of himself. "It was an overwhelming feeling of sadness, and of course the unrealistic wish and prayer that he can be with us for longer and longer" Not much news for today though, will definitely keep updating.
News as of 12/07/2013
News as of 13/07/2013
Today does not hold much news regarding Mr. Madiba, exept for one Idiot (Julius Malema) who reckons that Madiba should be treated at at Chris Hani Baragwanath to show confidence in the public health system. Really? This guy really only has a brain the size of a peanut.... or smaller! Two Soweto girls, one aged twelve and one aged thirteen paid tribute to Mandela in a very challenging way, and very brave if i may add. They walked to Soweto, they started walking at 06h00 and arrived at the hospital just after 20h00. Now that is a very long way to walk, and i can only imagine what it took of them. There were times when they got tired, but they never gave up. Very inspiring. When they reached the hospital they had dinner, and held a prayer service for Mr. Madiba. They wanted to camp outside the hospital till the next morning, however, they were approached by a security guard who offered them a place to sleep inside the hospital on the first floor. They were given blankets and coffee, now i think that was really a good gesture, See there are still humanity out there, people that care. Madiba is still responding to the treatment, and still critical but stable.
News as of 14/07/2013
Former President Thabo Mbeki states that Mr. Madiba my be discharged soon, however, on the other side I heard a rumor that he is fully dependant on life support machines and is only being kept alive till after his birthday. I just wish people will come out with one story and stick with it. Multiple versions just causes confusion. The support outside the hospital is still quite remarkable. Balloons and flower were everywhere to be seen. The messages just gets more and more each and every day. People see that Mr. Madiba aint about to give up yet and therefore they wont give up either. Mr. Madiba has taught the worl a lot of things, like: 1. how important education is. 2. children are the most important part of the world. 3. to llive together in peace and the list goes on and on. Some notes found outside the hospital: 1. "You have taught the world the greatest gift... that it doesn't matter what colour I am."
2."Tata, you are our hero and we will honour your legacy by living a proud [life] of our own."
3. "We honour the sacrifice you have made for us. Every day we will do our best to make our lives worthy of your sacrifice."
News as of 15/07/2013
Mr. Madiba is still critical but stable in the Pretoria hospital, and is also still responding very well to the treatment! I really am glad, this man is a Strong man, a fighter. Not only for All of the world, but for himself and his own health as well. Colin Mgodeli prayed for Madiba in front of the hospital. A young boy and girl along with their father went to visit the hospital, and the boy wrote a message on the wall for Mr. Madiba. Its quite amazing how many people, young and old alike looks up to this man. Members of Maitibolo Cultural Troupe also performed outside the hospital in respects of Madiba. Members of the Toronto Children's Chorus from Canada, also took the time to pay respects to the idol we all know and love. Worshippers from the Twelve Apostles Church in Christ also prayed for Madiba. Volunteers from cupcakes 4 Kids with Cancer also made a giant portrait of Madiba in a Johannesburg shopping mall - all made out of cupcakes. It is really remarkable to see to what lengths people will go to, to pay their respects. Mandela's daughter Makaziwe Mandela also paid him a visit. Grade 4 pupils from the St Mary's Diocesan School for Girls in Pretoria also paid a visit to Madiba. They had a big card and everyone wrote their own personal message. Some of the messages: You taught South Africa that you can live in a village, but you never know what leads your way. If it wasn't for you, I would not be able to be in my school.
Thank you for your sacrifices. I will want you to take this message and know that is never the end, get well soon
News as of 16/07/2013
The Cape Town civic centre will now be open on weekends and public holidays to
allow more people to view the Nelson Mandela exhibition. "One thing we can be entirely certain about is that Madiba continues to inspire,
he continues to unite, he continues to symbolise the hope we all have for our
wonderful and special country." Can you believe, while Mr. Madiba is sick in hospital some people still has the nerve to criticise him.Really? Grow some balls, build a bridge, get over it! Today a group of senior citizens from Mamelodi came to the hospital to pay their respects to Mr. Madiba. They even sang songs. Tiger woods who recently won the US masters can still recall his first meeting with Mr. Madiba and according to him it was something out of this world. Tiger Woods and his father was invited to Mr. Madiba's house and in his own words :it still gives me chills". According to Tiger Woods, when he and his dad walked in to the room, it was a complete different atmosphere. And on a alst note: Defending British Open champion and South African sporting legend Ernie Els, also paid tribute to Mandela at Muirfield and said it would be "wonderful" if a South African player could win this week and give his sports-mad nation a much-needed morale boost. "Obviously sport has been a key factor in bringing South Africa together into a democratic place and state," Els said on Monday. "And President Mandela played such a big part in that also back in the early '90s, and the World Cup and soccer, African Nations Cup."News as of 17/07/2013
I just saw a poll running with the question: is it okay to criticise former president nelson Mandela, and to my shock 61% of the people - 11668 people said yes, 7% of the people - 1334 people said no and 32% of the people - 6003 people said maybe. In my personal opinion it is never ever ever ever okay to criticise or judge any one person on this earth. We as humans were not placed here to judge and criticise, however some people really think that they can just do and say what ever they want, when and where ever they want. The irony of this whole story is if you have a look at those people judging and criticising they themselves has got some personal issue not with any one other than themselves, and usually the people pointing fingers are the ones who has the most dust swept swept under their carpets, the most skeletons in their closets. In my opinion once again, if you ain't got nothing nice to say then just don't say anything at all. It is always so easy to say mean things, and be cruel. Ever stopped and thought about maybe try being lovable and positive? People are animals - I have decided! An AbaThembu royal council representative paid a visit to the hospital today. Mandela's daughter Makaziwe Mandela,
Graça Machel and grand-daughter Ndileka Mandela
were at the private facility for their regular visit on Wednesday. The activity outside of the hospital is quite today - I think everyone is preparing something special for Mr. Madiba's birthday. His daughter said while visiting Madiba he was watching TV, and he gave them a very big smile and held up his hand - so his condition is most definitely improving, he is also gaining more energy and strength and to think approximately two weeks ago doctors wanted to put of his life support machines. Thank God his family fought for him. President Jacob Zuma will mark the birthday by overseeing the donation of houses
to poor white families in the Pretoria area, in line with his Cabinet's theme to
commemorate Mandela's birthday this year by focusing on food security, shelter
and literacy. In Cape Town, labour activists are holding an event at St George's Cathedral on
Thursday, in remembrance of Mandela's years of service and to encourage people
to donate food to charity while leaving messages of support for the former
leader's family. I think it is all the prayers an support not only from his family, but from people all over the world that has brought hims this far.News as of 18-07-2013
The day that the nation has been waiting for, Former President Nelson Mandela's 95th birthday.
Just something small from me: happy birthday Madiba, Happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Madiba, Happy birthday to you. Hope you have many more, and that you were spoiled rotten today. Hip Hip.... HOOORAY!!!!
What an absolutely awesome day filled with love, support and lots of excitement.
Just before starting my story; some people make an God of Mandela, I idolise him, I respect him as well as his strength, but I know who my real God is. I received all these messages today saying: why not give 67 minutes to God. God should not only have 67 minutes dedicated to him, he should have all you're time dedicated to him, and he should be apart of every little thing you do. He should be apart of every decision you make. So please people, I am sure the majority of the people knows who to believe in, and in who's hands to place their fate, now off that subject and on to my story.
I would really also still like to visit the Mandela's family museum, however my fiancée does not want to go with me and I am to scared to go alone. I would really like to see the house himself as well as his family lived in. I think I need to make a point to visiting these places, including the apartheid museum as well as the Mandela museum as it is all part of where and how South Africa came to where it is today. It is really sad though that South Africa has come to be such and dangerous place, that me as a woman alone are too scared to go on my own.
I really really really want to visit Roben Island and I will make a point of doing that, I am aiming to take a trip down to Cape town next year maybe I can make some of my hopes a reality - that is if the finances are available!
Anyway, enough about me and my dreams and hopes, today had LOTS of activity outside the hospital where Madiba is still critical but stable, with his health steadily improving according to doctors.
Jacob Zuma encouraged all of South Africa to give something or do something good today. '
Some of the days happenings:
1. Dominican School for Deaf Children did story telling to pre-school learners.2. People held hands and had a prayer meeting from Mr. Madiba from Gugulethu.
3. Learners from Grade R-12 at Fields College in Rustenburg collected bags for Hospice and shaped them into Madiba’s age!
4. Members of the Muslim community wish Madiba well outside Athlone Stadium
5. Little House Montessori Pre-school in Parkhurst celebrated Mandela day by the children making a handprint rainbow! Happy birthday Madiba!
6. Radio & TV Presenter Elma Smit was giving a helping hand at the Holy Cross Day Care Centre in Soweto with the 5FM team.
7. Speaking of the 5fm team, DJ Fresh helped to paint at the Holy Cross Day Care centre with the rest of his team in Soweto.
I am sure there were many more good deeds performed, however if I should continue mentioning them all I will be sitting her for quite a while so back to the news.
These were the exact words of Madibas ex Winnie Mandela, when she had an interview with Radio 702: "There are prophets of doom who say the country will come to a standstill... but I want to reassure [the country] today, on this very special day... to the nation and the entire caring world, it will continue as it has always done." "The country will solidify and come together and carry on." Trust me when saying that I am one of the sceptic people about what really will happen if Madiba should pass away, however, no one can determine that, once again we can just hope and pray for peace.
Wow Graça Machel and Mr. Madiba also celebrated their 15th anniversary today, Graça is a good wife and a very strong woman, she barely ever left Madiba's bedside.
At their wedding on 18 July 1998, archbishop emeritus Desmond Tutu said Machel had "made a decent man out of" Mandela she is also fluent in English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish and her native Tsonga.
In 2010 Time magazine named her among the world's 100 most influential people - now that is one remarkable woman.
School children sang happy birthday to Madiba outside the hospital.
People from all ages, races, and sizes sang, danced and prayed, you could see balloons everywhere. There are so many news I really think that I will be typing for the rest of my life.
According to Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, Madiba is very responsive, he opens his eyes and nods as if to say he is still here.
A military brass band also played the national anthem three times outside the hospital.
His daughter Zindzi Mandela-Motlhajwa often tease Mr. Madiba, saying: 'our father who art in Houghton'. We would like to have him there [in Houghton], not in hospital."
Nurses across the country wished former president Nelson Mandela a speedy recovery, "We wish him more strength to recover and be with his family soon," said Democratic Nursing Organisation of SA spokesperson Sibongiseni Delihlazo.
Our own SA swimmers also wished Mandela a happy birthday. It just amazes me more and more every day what a remarkable person this man is, as well as what a strong influence he really has on the world.
FIFA President Sepp Blatter wrote to Mandela to wish him a happy birthday and Premier League club Manchester City will play a game Thursday in his honour.
The Bafana players will hand out food, toys, clothing and tools to HIV/Aids orphans at the SOS Children’s Village in Kitwe.
A group of nurses from a nearby hospital came to sing "Nelson Mandela, there is no one like you", before reporting for duty.
A minibus of people aged between 50 and 70 came from Thembisa to drop off birthday cards and flowers at a wall of well-wishes outside the hospital.
A 6-year-old boy clutching a container told a reporter: "I brought cake for Mandela for his birthday." - A shame, that is so sweet.
"Tell me the truth: when you were walking down the road that last time didn't you hate them," Clinton said he questioned Mandela.
"He said briefly: 'I did. I am old enough to tell the truth.' He said: 'I felt hatred and fear but I said to myself, if you hate them when you get in that car you will still be their prisoner. I wanted to be free and so I let it go.'
"He said: 'People can take everything from you. I lost my family, the chance to see my children grow up, the best years of my life. They can take everything except your mind and your heart...those things I decided not to give away. He looked at me and smiled and said: neither should you.
That is a lesson that every human being on earth had better learn sooner or later. The grace of it embraces every friend that he had."
The Proteas made their contribution towards Nelson Mandela Day, when they hosted a coaching clinic for 67 minutes with a group of Under-17 cricketers in Colombo on Thursday. The Boks also paid tribute to Mr. Madiba by visiting a school.
South Africa's ambassador to Italy Nomatemba Tambo attended an exhibition organized by an anti-racism centre
The Eiffel Tower in Paris was
floodlit in the colours of the South African flag
Sincere apologies for only writing something now. My little one was sick with diarrhoea, then I got laryngitis (which I still have) and now my little one is also getting sick. Anyway to continue:
News as of 19-07-2013
In Cape Town the first full length trailer of the long awaited movie Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom has been released. I am going to see if I can get my hands on that trailer and have a look at it myself so I can make my own opinion. I just had a look at the trailer and it looks as if it could be something worth watching. If I ever had to place myself in his shoes, I would not be able to do half the things that he has done throughout his life. Where everyone else was too scared to stand up for them selves make a worthy point, or leave an honest opinion, he had what it took and stood up against hundreds maybe even thousands of people who wanted him dead. He had an ideal, he had ambition, he had his own thoughts of how he wanted life to be and he made it a reality. Yes he has been through hell and back, However, for freedom he will die! Once again I take my hat off to him. In today's life people are not only afraid to stand up for another person they are also terrified to stand up for themselves, because heaven knows what may come of it. Its time for people to take back their lives and start controlling their own lives instead of allowing other people to do it for them.
Nelson Mandela's great grandson Luvuyo spoke to eNCA, notes about the conversation: According to him, he recently went on a trip to Paris and met a variety of people who can barely speak English, but as soon as they hear he was from South Africa the first words out of their mouths was: How is Nelson Mandela, now it takes a true legend to leave a legacy all over the world.
Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu also took the time to visit Madiba at the hospital - it must be quite nice to have so many people who wants to be around you, who looks up to you and who will forever be loyal to you. During his visit Mr. Madiba was asleep, however he was able to touch him and hold his hand. Today was quite outside the hospital after all of yesterday's celebrations.
Just after 09:00 a group of less than 20 people were singing, dancing and taking
pictures outside the hospital.Members of the Kankouran West African Dance Company perform at the beginning of a ceremony to celebrate the life Nelson Mandela on the occasionin the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center in Washington.
A portrait of Mandela is displayed in front of cyclists at the kilometer zero in Gap, before the start of the 172.5 km eighteenth stage of the 100th edition of the Tour de France cycling race.
The ISS crew also took the time to wish Nelson Mandela well.
Former president also gave a stunning speech about Mr. Madiba.
Madiba, really did sacrifice a lot to keep other people alive. Yes he has killed men, he has done bad deeds, he is not perfect, then again, show me one person that is, however, I really think that all the good he did throughout his life outweighs the bad without any doubt. Mandela's 95 years taught people a lot. The three most important things was:
1. You can not free yourself or anyone else unless you yourself are free from bitterness, hatred and resentment. People can take everything from you except you're mind and you're heart and that is a very important lesson to be learned
2. Our freedom to serve are limited when other people are not free and empowered. Madiba freed South Africa. Madiba actually told a 6 year old white girl that if she stayed in school and studied hard, that maybe one day she would be president. Now a person who can do that has a heart and mind in all the right places. I also believe that not one person would just do something like that on instinct.
3. Madiba proved that you don't have to be in a public office to protect and serve the public. What is in his heart still lights up everything he turns to.
News as of 20-07-2013
It appears to me that the interest on Mr. Madiba is dying down more and more with each passing day, as I have read that very few International TV broadcasters are still interested on reporting about Mr. Madiba. Yes over the past two (2) months the focus on Mr. Madiba as well as his family has been quite a important focus, however, he is an idol in many peoples lives and there are still people concerned about him as well as his health. As recently Oscar Pistorius made news and that is all the world was going on about still there were interest in various other aspects of life and I think that is the same in this situation, not everything is one hundred present completely focused on him, people are still focusing on what is important and happening in this world/life. So I think that he deserves the bit of media coverage that is still all about him, his health as well as his legacy. Members of Zimbabwe's opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), who are living in South Africa wished former president Nelson Mandela well. "We are in solidarity with South Africans wishing Mandela well." The group of about 30, sang and prayed outside the Medi-Clinic Heart hospital where Mandela was receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection. They brought flowers and placards wishing for Mandela's speedy recovery. "We still need him around. His ideologies and his teachings are very good for an African man like me," he said. The support outside the hospital are also starting to die down, however, there are still some supporting Madiba as well as his family in this time.
News as of 21-07-2013
I wish I could see with my own eyes how his current condition really is and if he really had any improvement. I am not saying anyone is lying however, I am just thinking they say that his condition is improving on a daily basis, if so why do they still refer to him as "critical but stable"? His condition might be improving, however, maybe his lungs aren't strong enough yet to function on their own? He really is a strong individual, he is really fighting for his life, he is really holding on. In his lowest of lows he is still an iconic hero to so many people, he still encourages so many people in various aspects of life, he teaches people to be who and what they are and not to change for any one or anything in this world. Life might throw curve balls your way and sometimes even throw you down the floor, however you still have the decision, the free will to decide how you are going to react to each situation and you still have the free will to decide what you are going to do and who you are going to turn in to. Each person has their own way of handling conflict and problems. Some people takes it laughing, others cry, some even feel like they want to scream, some hide, and others run away. If you go through enough heartache and pain and troubles in your life, you are bound to change. Some change for the best, others for the worst and some people loses themselves completely. To lose yourself is one thing, but the quest to finding yourself again is a very difficult, unsure, scary road that you have to walk alone and some people just cant handle it, and always stay what the world has made of them, never really knowing who and what they really are. Mr. Madiba has been to hell and back, still he never lost himself, he always stayed true to who and what he was and in my opinion that takes a real strong person, a real fighter. I admire him as well as his strength News as of 22-07-2013
Today was quite outside the hospital. According to Mr. Madiba's grandson Mandla Mandela, Madiba is getting stronger and his health is improving with each passing day. The visit left him with a warm feeling because Madiba is getting better. The small amount of messages and support are still overwhelming. Former president Nelson Mandela is showing "sustained improvement the presidency said today. President Jacob Zuma had visited Mandela at the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital earlier on Monday, and assured him of the "love and support of all South Africans".On 19 July 2013, struggle veteran Andrew Mlangeni capped days of commemorations and celebrations around former President Nelson Mandela's 95th birthday by ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange. The 88-year-old travelled to New York as a guest of honour at commemorations around Nelson Mandela International Day. It's a privilege few are given, but the South African veteran took it in his stride, pounding the gavel three times instead of once. CEO of the New York Stock Exchange Euronext Duncan Nederhauer handed him a medallion in honour of the 4th official Nelson Mandela International Day. "We admire what you've done in your life and hope we could do half as much," says Nederhauer. Mlangeni responded: "It's a great honour, I feel highly honoured and humbled of course by your good gesture." The day’s event ended with a personalised tour of the trading floor.
In celebration of global icon Mr Mandela’s 95th birthday, Tiger Brands, in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory and the Department of Basic Education (DBE), distributed 2 500 food parcels at underprivileged schools in KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces.
News as of 23-07-2013
I am really struggling to find news, so I have to do with the little I can find. A hundred children from crèches in and around Johannesburg sang and prayed for
former president Nelson Mandela. The SA Early Childhood Development Council arranged buses to shuttle the
children from five crèches to the hospital. Spokesperson Teboho Mohapeloa said some of the crèches were based on the East
Rand, in Vosloorus and Kempton Park. "Our message with the children is: 'Get better, Tata'," he said. "We are here to pray for Mandela and to say Mandela: 'Please stand up. We
need you'." Quite remarkable how many young people still needs Mr. Madiba as a idol, a hero, someone to look up and someone's footsteps to follow in. It takes one person to make a difference, Mr. Madiba started making a difference a very long time ago, and the difference is still happening, in very small measures but it still is. Former president Nelson Mandela's eldest granddaughter Ndileka Mandela
visited him. She entered the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital around 11:30am and left about an hour
later. It has to be quite something to have so many people who holds you in their hearts and minds, who loves and supports you, who stands by you through thick and thin. Family is everything in life, without family a person has nothing. News as of 24-07-2013
Rhodes University has defended its decision to provide legal aid to the Mandela family members who took Mandla Mandela to court about the relocation of the graves of former president Nelson Mandela's children. "You only have to look at the 12 applicants - no one in their right minds can give them funding," he was quoted as saying. Legal aid is a service offered to less privileged people, now they want to make use of legal aid. They might have their own reasons, however, if legal aid accepted their membership in my opinion they can not decline the service to them. Opened in 1967, Gramadoelas serves its last dinner in Johannesburg's Market Theatre complex on Saturday, and next week auctioneers will sell off restaurant equipment as well as oil paintings, brassware and other decorative bric-a-brac. It is a muted ending for a place where snapshots displayed near the buffet table evoke sparkling memories. The name of the South African restaurant means "the back of beyond," but it was the place to be in its heyday, drawing Nelson Mandela and other global figures who perused a menu of ostrich casserole, deep-fried crocodile cubes and other regionally inspired dishes. Now Gramadoelas is closing after the murder of one of its two convivial owners. Mandela, South Africa's anti-apartheid leader, visited the restaurant after white minority rule ended in 1994. Queen Elizabeth II went. So did big names in entertainment, including Elton John and South Africa-born Charlize Theron. Quite sad that the death of one person has to lead to such dramatic measures. The Gramadoelas menu, originally based on a blend of early Dutch and Cape Malay food, offers bobotie — "a traditional beef mince loaf gently spiced with an egg custard topping, " as well as "umngqusho," a dish of braised beef shin, beans and maize described as Mandela's favorite, and Malva pudding with custard, "evolved from the exclusion of alcohol in the dessert and replaced with Vinegar and Apricot Jam." Nelson Mandela's daughter Makaziwe Mandela arrived at the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital. Shortly after her arrival, a group of traditional leaders from the North West arrived to deliver messages of support and a bucket of flowers. A group of Gauteng traditional healers performed a ritual for former president Nelson Mandela. The healers burnt incense in a pot, knelt on the ground, sprinkled tobacco, sang and summoned the Madiba ancestors to heal Mandela.
News as of 25-07-2013
Today Mandela container library opened up at Refithlilepele Primary School in Soshanguve. The 29th library of its kind to open in South Africa since the launch of the container libraries project in 2011. Another library was also opened at Alpine Primary School is situated in Mitchells Plain, on the outskirts of Cape Town. The biopic of anti-apartheid icon and ailing former South African president Nelson Mandela will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September.
Former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (Nelson meaning: Son of Neal), (Rolihlahla has quite a few meanings, I will mention some:
1. The name of Rolihlahla creates a mature, self-possessed, and responsible nature.
2.You are an organizer and leader who exercises sound and fair judgement in all your dealings, both business and personal.
3. The name is a very practical influence, causing you to take your responsibilities seriously.
4.You enjoy the responsibility of home and family, and you appreciate a settled environment. Rolihlahla it is an isiXhosa name which means “pulling the branch of a tree”, but colloquially it means “troublemaker”
Rolihlahla was Mr Madiba's birth name, the name Nelson was not given until his first day at school, when he was baptized as a Methodist.
Nelson was born 18 July 1918 in the village of Mvezo on the Mbashe River, district of Umtata in Transkei, South Africa. Mandela also known as:
1. Madiba: this is a clan name that was given to him. It is considered very polite to use someone’s clan name.
2. Tata: Many people gave him that name as its meaning is father and Mr. Nelson is a father not only to his only blood children but to many other as well.
Mr. Mandela grew up with two (2) sisters, both his parents were illiterate, however his mother decided to send him to a local Methodist school when he was about seven. At age nine Mr. Mandela's father sadly passed away, after the death of his father Mr. Mandela started rebelling. His mother took him to "Great Place" palace at Mqhekezweni, where he was entrusted under the guardianship of Thembu regent, Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo. There Mr. Mandela was raised alongside their son Justice and daughter Nomafu. Mr. Mandela went to church every Sunday and Christianity became a huge part of his life. He studies English, Xhosa, history and geography in a Methodist mission school next to the palace. At age 16 he, Justice and several other boys traveled to Tyhalarha to undergo a circumcision ritual that transformed them from boys to men. He was given the name "Dalibunga".
I am by far not done with this story so keep checking back for updates
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