Siyavuya Mzantsi and ANA
MESSAGES of support have poured in for Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, who was readmitted to a City hospital for observation this week.
Tutu’s readmission on Tuesday was not related to his cancer treatment and according to doctors his prostate-specific antigen level was “pleasingly low”.
He was admitted to an unnamed hospital after expressing concern over renewed discomfort.
President Jacob Zuma said: “We once again wish a speedy recovery to the Archbishop, and urge the nation to keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Spokesperson for the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, Zaakirah Vadi, said Kathrada had indicated that he had sent a message of support to Tutu.
“Our prayers are with him and his family and friends. We look forward to seeing him soon, re-energised, and as always, inspiring people in South Africa and across the world,” read a statement from the foundation.
According to Tutu’s daughter, Reverend Canon Mpho Tutu, his doctors considered it prudent for him to return to hospital for further observation.
He was expected to be in hospital until the weekend.
Tutu will have a few days of bed rest while his medical team brings the situation “under control” and determines the next course of action, if any, Mpho said on Tuesday.
Former president FW de Klerk and the FW de Klerk Foundation expressed concern about Tutu’s readmission to hospital, also sending wishes for his speedy recovery.
The 83-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate had spent a week in hospital to receive treatment for a persistent infection earlier this month.