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Tim Sukazi reveals cost of Bernard Parker’s surgery

TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi has revealed the cost of Bernard Parker’s surgery, which was performed last week.

Last Wednesday, the experienced striker suffered a broken leg in a match against Mamelodi Sundowns.

A clash with Sundowns midfielder Bongani Zungu in the Carling Knockout Cup left his left leg broken.

He is expected to be out of action for several months. “The latest is that he has undergone surgery, and the good thing is that it was a success,” Sukazi told Power FM. “And you know, it looks as if he might just be taking his first towards walking in the next six weeks.

“We’re delighted to gather this kind of news for the club and, of course, for him and his family and the supporters who love him. It looks like he’ll be able to play again.

“I mean, if he’ll be walking in six weeks, then it means that the chances of him playing again are very, very high. Of course, there are some previous cases.”

He gave Dillon Shepard, Joseph Malongoane, and Dan Malesela examples of people who bounced back after suffering similar injuries.

Bernard Parker and Tim Sukazi at a hospital after a successful surgery
Bernard Parker and Tim Sukazi

WHAT WAS THE COST OF PARKER’S SURGERY?

Sukazi said they had to ensure Parker gets the best medical assistance, and they “went for the top range” specialist. He added that they “didn’t want to cut corners.

“We’ve been playing our part, to be honest, and I think we’ve done the best we could do. Going forward, I had spoken at the launch of his book that as long as TS Galaxy is in existence, Bernard’s future in football is secured. I’m not saying it now. I said it before.

“There are two ways: if the person has become impaired, meaning that he can’t play anymore, down the line, they claim insurance. With injuries, you’re also able to claim medical expenses. But that is sorted down the line, not now immediately.

“When something like this happens, you need to be sure as a club that you’re good to incur all these medical expenses. They’re not cheap, of course.

“It’s in excess of R200, 000. You have to do it immediately because the situation is urgent.”

Parker was discharged from the hospital on Saturday and is recovering at home.

Meanwhile, Sukazi said they had invited players who may need professional assistance to alert the club.

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