THE father of Kaden Moodley, who died after he collapsed during a warm-up session ahead of a hockey match at school on Tuesday, said he loved taking pictures.
In a post on social media earlier today, Thevan Moodley shared his son's photograph and wrote: "The way he loved photos and this was taken a few minutes before his untimely passing. My son, Kaden Moodley, just 15 years old, has returned home to the Angels. Until we meet again, baby boy. Life will never be the same again.”
Tammy Moodley, Kaden's sister, also took to social media.
She wrote: “My dear Smotherson, no words can describe the feeling of having to live life without you, to have to close your eyes for the last time and to have a part of me leave with you. I can't say I've gained an angel when you were, and will always be, my angel. I am so proud to be your sister. I love you more than words could ever describe. Rest Easy, Broski.”
The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal said in a statement that the Grade 10 pupil at Glenwood High School had requested to be substituted and stepped aside for some air, before he collapsed on Tuesday.
“Despite the tireless efforts of paramedics to resuscitate him, he was pronounced deceased at the scene,” said the statement.
In a statement, the school said: “It is with a great amount of sadness that we must confirm that a learner from our school passed away this afternoon."
The school further extended its condolences to the boy’s family and wished them “immense strength during this profoundly difficult time”.
The school added that while they appreciated and understood that there would be much speculation and potential for misinformation at this traumatic time, they wanted to confirm that there had been an incident where a boy had collapsed following an activity.
“Despite efforts from Glenwood staff, and paramedics, he unfortunately passed away. May a wonderful young Glenwood boy rest in eternal peace."
The school added that they have engaged with the education department to ask for counsellors to be made available for the school community.