A 12-year-old boy has become the latest recipient of a special bravery medal at Netcare Olivedale Hospital in Johannesburg after showing exceptional courage while being treated for a painful knee dislocation in the emergency department.
Ehben Muller’s mother, Adri Muller, says the frightening ordeal began in the early hours of the morning when her son woke the household in distress.
“Ehben woke us at around 5 am in severe pain and very anxious because his knee had dislocated while he was sleeping,” she explains. “It was traumatic for him, especially because it happened while sleeping.”
Concerned about the injury, the family called for an ambulance. Paramedics assessed Ehben and, worried that attempting to manipulate the knee could cause further damage, decided to transport him to the emergency department at Netcare Olivedale Hospital for specialised care.
| Pic: Registered nurse Zama Mpanza, photographed with patient Ehben Muller, his mother, Adri and father Anton Muller. |
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At the hospital, doctors confirmed that Ehben had sustained a dislocation of the left patella (kneecap). The injury was treated in the emergency department, where the kneecap was carefully stabilised under conscious sedation, allowing the procedure to be performed safely and comfortably.
Despite the intense pain and anxiety, Ehben remained remarkably calm and cooperative while doctors and nurses treated him. He bravely followed all the medical team’s instructions, even helping to position himself for the procedure despite his discomfort. His composure and maturity impressed everyone who cared for him.
The medical team was so impressed with his exceptional bravery that they presented him with one of the emergency department’s special bravery medals, awarded to young patients who show courage during their visit.
The emergency department at Netcare Olivedale Hospital has a tradition of recognising brave children who receive treatment in the unit. The medals are donated by members of the community and help turn what can be a frightening hospital experience into a positive memory.
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This wasn’t Ehben’s first knee dislocation, which makes his calm approach all the more remarkable—he already knew how painful the treatment would be. He is currently undergoing physiotherapy and working with a biokineticist to strengthen the muscles that support his knees. His mother explains that he has a condition called ‘patella alta’, where the kneecaps sit unusually high, increasing the likelihood of repeated dislocations. His doctors have advised that surgery isn’t yet an option, as he is still growing, making rehabilitation and targeted strengthening exercises crucial.
“He is very dedicated to his recovery,” says Mrs Muller. “He attends physiotherapy, works with a biokineticist, and even goes to the gym to strengthen the muscles around his knees. Keeping him fit, active, and healthy is our priority. He never complains, even when the exercises are challenging or painful. As parents, we should never take it for granted when our children are healthy and able to participate in sports without limitations.”
Despite the setback, Ehben remains an active and engaged schoolboy. He attends Laerskool Unika, where he pursues his passion for computers and technology through the robotics programme. He also plays hockey and is determined to keep participating, showing remarkable courage in overcoming the fear of potential knee dislocations.
Last year, he represented his school at the 2025 World Robotics Olympiad, demonstrating his curiosity and passion for computers and new technology. He hopes to compete again this year.
Ehben recovered well after treatment and was discharged later the same day with a knee brace and crutches to support his recovery. Before leaving, he thanked each member of the medical team who helped him.
“Visits to the emergency department can be frightening for children,” says Eugene Ferreira, General Manager of Netcare Olivedale Hospital. “Recognising their courage helps make the experience less intimidating and celebrates the remarkable resilience young patients often show. Ehben’s bravery was truly inspiring to witness.”
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Notes to editors
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