Help Nicole & Kayden Recover from Giraffe Attack

My sister Nicole and her son, Kayden need urgent help after a tragic & rare giraffe attack

On Wednesday 19 October 2022, Nicole and her two toddlers were tragically involved in a rare attack by a giraffe.

My sister sustained severe injuries and needs extensive medical help. Her 4-year-old son, Kayden is also hospitalized with head injuries. We are all devastated by the passing of her 16-month-old daughter, Kaia, who could not be saved.

Nicole is a loving mom, partner, sister, and friend.

She, as well as the rest of our family, is passionate about nature conservation and living in harmony with nature.

My sister, her fiancé Jason and their 2 kids live with our parents in a small (non-big 5) game park in South Africa. Nicole and the kids were walking the short distance from her house to our parent’s house. She was walking on an established pathway used daily by family and staff members.

While on the pathway Nicole saw two giraffes. As a qualified guide, she followed all normal protocols for animal encounters. She kept a safe distance and had already passed the giraffe when the female giraffe unexpectedly turned, stormed, and attacked them.

The incident happened a few meters from our home. My brother and mom were at home and heard the screams and commotion. They ran to assist and managed to stand off the female giraffe.

Following the incident, both giraffes walked off into the bush unharmed.

Our family is severely traumatized by the incident and the passing of Kaia, but our priority now is to make sure Nicole and Kayden get all the medical attention they need, and that Jason and the rest of the family have the needed resources to support them through the long healing process.

Both Nicole and Kayden are still hospitalized.

Kayden has fractures in his skull and needs to be monitored closely.

Nicole’s injuries are severe and include laceration to the liver, collapsed lung, broken jaw, arm, and ribs, as well as a serious spinal injury. She has many surgeries and a very long, challenging road to recovery ahead.

Our family is in urgent need of additional funds to cover all the medical expenses. Please support us to allow Nicole and Kayden a chance for a full recovery and life.