Mzansi is reeling following the sudden death of Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala. The kwaito legend was a member of the iconic trio, TKZee. According to a statement issued by his family and bandmates, Tshabalala passed away on Monday morning as a result of an epileptic seizure. He was 45.
“It is with great sadness that the family wishes to confirm the passing of Tokollo ‘Magesh’ Tshabalala,” read a statement by TKZee’s Zwai Bala on Monday afternoon.
“Magesh, as he was affectionately known, passed away this morning as a result of an epileptic seizure. The family requests for privacy during this difficult period. All details pertaining to his memorial and funeral service will be shared in due course,” Bala said.
Tributes pouring in
His passing was also confirmed by Orlando Pirates, who extended their condolences to the Tshabalala family. The muso was the son of Orlando Pirates FC director, Stanley “Screamer” Tshabalala.
“We convey our heartfelt and deepest sympathy to the Tshabalala family and pledge our profound moral support,” the football club’s press statement read. “We supplicate that God gives the family fortitude at this moment of extreme grief and pain.”
Tributes from the music industry and fans are pouring in on social media.
Here’s what you should know about epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder where brain activity becomes abnormal causing seizures or periods of unusual behaviour, sensations and sometimes loss of awareness.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), epilepsy affects up to 50 million people with 70 to 80% living in low- and middle-income countries.
According to the JUTA Medical Brief, epilepsy affects one in every 100 people in Mzansi and more than 75% of people will have their first seizure before the age of 20.
It is also estimated that up to 80% of people with epilepsy can control their seizures with medication. This according to Dr Patty Francis, the president of Neurological Association of South Africa (NASA).
She tells TimesLive, “In South Africa, the treatment gap is exasperated by severe staff and resource shortages.”
“The ratio of neurologists to the population in SA is one per 500 000 compared with 35 per 500 000 population in high-income countries, limited access to anti-seizure medicines, lack of knowledge, misperceptions, and stigma.”
Dr Patty Francis
How to recognise a seizure
According to John Hopkins a seizure can be triggered by many things, including:
- Brain tumours
- Stroke
- Brain damage from illness or injury
You can also recognise a seizure through the following symptoms:
- Staring
- Stiffening of the body
- Possible blue colour around the mouth
- Jerking movements
- Not responding to noise or words for brief periods
- Appearing confused or in a haze
- Nodding your head rhythmically, when associated with loss of awareness or loss of consciousness
- Periods of rapid eye blinking and staring
