Emotions ran high during the funeral service of Glenwood Boys High pupil Kaden Moodley at the Clare Estate Crematorium on Saturday.
Kaden,15, who was in Grade 10, collapsed on the school's sports field on Tuesday while training for a hockey match.
According to reports, his mother, Kammy Moodley, said Kaden wanted to be substituted while training as he could not breathe. But before he could walk off the field, he collapsed.
Kaden’s dream of studying abroad and becoming a successful businessman in Dubai was cut short. During the funeral, his father Thevan Moodley said every day is a new challenge.
“The circumstances around his passing are questionable but as a family, we allow him to rest and have a dignified funeral. Thank you to every one of you for sending a love light to the family. We would not be able to get through this without the support of everyone. I know you did it for us. To support us,” he said.
Niven Maharaj, a relative, said Kaden had immense love and respect and showed kindness toward people and animals.
Maharaj stated that everyone cherished the memories they shared with Kaden.
“He was willing to assist anybody. He was unselfish in his sense of generosity. He would make personal sacrifices to buy a gift for someone. He always shared with those around him. He welcomed anyone with a huge smile and bear hug. He also commented on how fire they might look,” Maharaj said.
Kaden's sister, Tammy Moodley, said the support they received was overwhelming, especially from parents who only knew him through their children.
“People are so loving and caring out there. A memory that will always stick out for me is when Kaden will offer to take us for lunch or offer to pay the bill despite being unemployed,” she said.
In an emotional hand-written note slipped to one of the family members, a Glenwood boy pupil signed K.M wrote: "I'll never know why you left us. Many friends and family members shed tears over you. If it were not for you, I’d never wear this green blazer with pride. If it were not for you, Kaden, I would not be part of this brotherhood."
School friend Buhle Majali said he had a recent conversation about the English Premier League and a business studies test they had written last week.
Majali and Kaden played on the same cricket team previously.
“We joked around the marks we attained and some soccer banter. His death has sent shockwaves through the school. I believe this has brought the school together. Some of us who were too busy to speak with one another for months suddenly embraced each other and conversations flowed,” he said.
Classmate Jamie Jackson said he knew Kaden for eight years and his death came as a shock to all his friends. “He was jovial, hard-working and pushed himself on the field to be the best either in soccer or hockey. He was also passionate about Geography,” he said.
Kaden was led to the hall by his close friends and family. A flock of white birds was also released. Glenwood boys broke out into their school war cry in a tribute to him.
Glenwood High School Headmaster Pierre Jacobs said they appreciate and understand that there will be much speculation and potential for misinformation at this traumatic time. The school out of respect for the family will not disclose any further particular details at this moment.
zainul.dawood@inl.co.za
