Renowned gospel singer Hlengiwe Mhlaba has been in the hospital for nearly three weeks following a fall ahead of her scheduled performance in Sandton, Johannesburg. The incident occurred just a day before she was set to take part in the Ungazibulali Campaign, where she was expected to speak about mental health and combating mental illness. Unfortunately, due to the fall, Mhlaba had to cancel all her upcoming bookings.
The fall resulted in a broken ankle, and it was discovered that her back was also affected, although Mhlaba was initially unaware of this. According to a source close to the singer, she underwent back surgery to ensure she would be able to perform, as she was unable to stand following the ankle injury. The source also revealed that Mhlaba had preexisting back issues, which were aggravated by the fall. The minor procedure was necessary to address the additional back injury caused by the accident.
The source expressed concern about the potential impact on Mhlaba's upcoming gigs, especially with the festive season approaching. If her condition does not improve soon, she may have to miss out on several performances. "We can only hope that she recovers soon because she is already booked for many gigs, and her fans want to see her in good shape," the source stated. Mhlaba is currently focusing on her recovery, and the operation on her back will aid her, particularly during her stage performances, where prolonged standing can strain the back.
During this challenging time, Mhlaba is receiving support from her family and friends. They are rallying around her, providing the necessary care and encouragement. It is believed that with their support, she will overcome this setback. Mhlaba's manager, Nkululeko Khanya, declined to comment on the matter, mentioning that a statement will be released soon to update her fans on her progress.
The incident serves as a reminder of the physical risks and challenges that performers face, even in non-performance settings. It highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure artists' well-being and the significance of their support systems during times of adversity. Mhlaba's fans, along with the music industry, eagerly await her recovery and return to the stage, where she can continue to inspire and uplift with her soul-stirring performances.
