Blom was playing in the shallow water with his friend, just meters from where his father, Corné, and other adults were fishing, when a large crocodile dragged him under. Corné heroically fought to rescue him, only to realize that his son's left arm had been torn off. Despite the horror of the incident, Blom miraculously survived and is now facing an extensive medical recovery, Jacaranda FM says. 

The Good Morning Angels Fund has pledged R100 000 towards Blom's medical expenses, while two anonymous donors contributed an additional R25 000 and R50 000, respectively. Corporate support also poured in, with We Buy Cars stepping forward with a R50 000 donation. Deeply moved by Blom's story, listeners donated an additional R85 000, bringing the total contributions to an incredible R310 000, the station adds.

Jacaranda FM says that Blom is currently in the pediatric ICU at a private hospital, where he remains in a medically induced coma. His family, who do not have medical aid, are facing R1-million in hospital and rehabilitation costs. A BackaBuddy campaign has been launched to help cover the remaining expenses, and contributions can be made here.

"This story is heartbreaking, but it also shows the incredible power of community support," says Martin Bester, host of Jacaranda FM's Breakfast with Martin Bester. "Johandré is a brave little boy, and his family needs all the help they can get to ensure he receives the best medical care. We are so grateful to our listeners and partners for stepping up in such a big way."

The road to recovery will be long, but with the unwavering support of the Jacaranda FM family and the generosity of South Africans, Blom's journey is filled with hope, the station says.

Individuals can listen to Good Morning Angels every Wednesday morning on Jacaranda FM's Breakfast with Martin Bester, the station concludes.

For more information, visit www.jacarandafm.com. You can also follow Jacaranda FM on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of contributor