RIP John West — he passed away recently from natural causes.
John West was an autistic adult who had been abused and neglected by a previous caretaker. Des (@/waxesbydes_) found him in poor conditions, became his legal guardian, and took him in. Under her care, his health and life improved significantly. He gained independence, worked, attended college, and enjoyed family time with Des and her daughter Eliana. He had autism plus other serious underlying health issues.
His name is Professor Mashudu Tshifularo and this landmark surgery took place in March 2019 at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa.