Nelson Mandela marks 2 weeks in hospital
2012-12-22 14:34
Johannesburg - Former president Nelson Mandela continues to
respond to treatment as he marks two weeks of being hospitalised, the presidency
said on Saturday afternoon.
Earlier in the day President Jacob Zuma visited Mandela and
"assured him of the love and support of all South Africans, young and old,
and the whole world", said presidential spokesperson Mac Maharaj.
"We urge South Africans to continue praying for our
beloved Madiba during this period. Our hearts are with the whole family and
relatives."
Mandela, 94, was diagnosed with a lung infection and also
underwent gallstone surgery.
He was originally flown to hospital in Pretoria from his
Eastern Cape home at Qunu.
According to Associated Press, on Thursday, President Zuma
gave the first official acknowledgement that Mandela's condition has been
grave.
"I've been informed that, at his age, doctors need to
intervene in a very gradual and sensitive way in order to maximize the chances
of a full recovery," Zuma said at the time.
"The medical team has our full confidence and he is
receiving the best care possible."
Mandela has a history of lung problems having suffered from
tuberculosis towards the end of the 27 years he spent in prison.
His current stay in hospital is his longest since he was
freed over two decades ago.
- SAPA
