A year after a freak accident left her seriously injured, former Miss South Africa Kerishnie Naiker has shared an emotional update on her ongoing recovery, choosing gratitude and healing over blame.
The 1997 Miss SA titleholder took to Instagram to mark a major milestone in her journey: the day she wheeled herself out of a rehabilitation centre, exactly one year after the incident that changed her life.
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A fall that changed everything
In May 2024, Naiker was visiting the scenic Cape Point when a tourist, distracted while taking photos, unintentionally backed into her. The impact caused Naiker to fall down two steps near the lighthouse.
“While on stairs from the lighthouse at Cape Point, she walked backwards into me, tripping me down two steps,” Naiker explained in her post.
“She tried to get the lighthouse in focus and took one step too far… I’m thankful that I did not injure my head and remained compos mentis to get @netcare911 to favourably intervene, [but] I did incur a serious injury.”
Naiker underwent surgery on both legs and spent months relearning how to walk. Despite not yet being at full strength, her focus has remained firmly on recovery and resilience.
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‘Adaptability is an art and an advantage’
Alongside a video of herself leaving rehab in a wheelchair, Naiker wrote:
“Exactly a year later to the day, I began another major chapter, while physio and recovery continue. Adaptability is an art and an advantage. Ever grateful for the love and support.”
According to IOL, she has made it clear that her energy is directed toward healing, not resentment. “The focus has not once been on the negligent, selfie-addicted tourist,” she wrote, “rather being solution-driven and healing.”
A community inspired
Her decision to rise above anger has struck a chord with fans and followers, who flooded her post with messages of encouragement and admiration.
“So proud of you my darling friend. You were wheeled out. And now you walk out, into the world,” commented @unicorn_sindiso.
“You inspire me to not give up! Thank you for the hope you bring,” added @leonasingh28.
“Well done on all the progress you’ve made. May God continue His work and heal you completely,” wrote @janeenechetty.
Naiker’s story serves as a reminder that resilience often lies not in the avoidance of hardship, but in how we choose to rise from it.
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Featured Image: Instagram | kerishnie_naiker
