South African Man Becomes Paralyzed After Flu Diagnosis: A Journey of Resilience
Man 'suffering from flu' became paralysed in 15 minutes and 'might never walk again'
Dailystar Co Uk
Image: Dailystar Co Uk
Tinus Greyling, a 35-year-old software engineer from South Africa, experienced sudden paralysis from the chest down after battling flu symptoms. Diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a condition triggered by the influenza A virus, he faces an uncertain future but remains hopeful for recovery and cherishes his dreams of starting a family.
- 01Tinus Greyling was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a serious condition causing spinal cord inflammation, after experiencing severe flu symptoms.
- 02His paralysis occurred rapidly, within just 15 minutes, following a worsening of his flu symptoms.
- 03Doctors indicated that the condition is incurable, leaving Tinus uncertain about his ability to walk again.
- 04He underwent three months of hospitalization and rehabilitation, including high-dose steroids and immune therapy.
- 05Tinus remains optimistic, focusing on his dreams of having children and the support of his wife, Megan.
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Tinus Greyling, a 35-year-old software engineer from South Africa, faced a shocking health crisis after attending a wedding in July 2025. Initially diagnosed with the flu, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to paralysis from the chest down within just 15 minutes. After being admitted to the hospital with severe fever, he was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the spinal cord, likely triggered by the influenza A virus. Doctors informed him that the condition is incurable and that his ability to walk again is uncertain. Despite this grim prognosis, Tinus has chosen to remain positive and focus on rehabilitation, which included three months in the hospital followed by six weeks in a rehabilitation facility. He is determined to adapt to his new circumstances, stating, “Yes, I can’t walk, but I’m alive.” Tinus also expressed hope in stem cell therapy as a potential avenue for recovery and remains motivated by his dreams of starting a family with his wife, Megan.
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Tinus's story highlights the potential severe complications of flu and the importance of early medical intervention.
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