An Uber driver heroically defied traffic rules to save a mother in labour and her newborn, highlighting everyday bravery.
Johannesburg, South Africa (11 July 2024) – Sometimes, heroes don’t wear capes. Sometimes, they drive Ubers!
Robert Sehume is one of these “everyday heroes” whose quick thinking and bravery saved lives on a seemingly ordinary morning.
It was just after 8:00 AM on July 11, 2024, when a car came speeding toward the main entrance of Netcare Park Lane Hospital. The hooter blared, and the hazards flashed urgently. The hospital staff knew this was no ordinary arrival. A code blue was initiated, and within seconds, doctors, nurses, porters, and support staff were ready with equipment, wheelchairs, and hospital beds.
Inside the car, there was panic and awe. A mother in labour, her two sisters, and what was initially thought to be the father were stunned by the unfolding drama. But within minutes, a healthy baby was born in the back seat of the car, to the delight and relief of everyone present.
Once the mother and baby were safely transferred to the ward, Melissa Müller, the hospital’s Pharmacy Manager, was on the scene and chatted with the family. It was during this conversation that a surprising detail emerged. The man who had driven the car was not the father or even a relative.
He was Robert Sehume, their Uber driver.
Driving from Soweto, the journey took an unexpected turn when the mother went into labour on the double-decker highway. Her sister felt the baby’s head crowning, and it was then that Robert realised he had to act fast to save both lives.
“I knew, if I was to keep to standard traffic rules that we will not make it to the hospital in time. I switched my hazards on, used my hooter and drove in the yellow lane to get to the hospital as soon as possible. I am a bit shaken and wish we could be prepared for such events, but I am just glad they are okay,” Robert recounted.
Robert Sehume’s swift actions and calm under pressure turned a potentially tragic situation into a joyous event.
Melissa expressed her heartfelt thanks to him in a LinkedIn post: “Mr Robert Sehume, you are truly a hero! Thank you for your prompt action, your clear thinking and your determination to save a life!!”
Robert’s actions this morning were nothing short of heroic, proving that sometimes, the greatest heroes are those who rise to the occasion in the most unexpected ways. Thank you, Robert, for being an extraordinary example of courage and compassion!
by 