BY LERATO PHOSISI
South Africa may have moved off Stage 6 loadshedding and government now speaks of “load reduction” instead of blackouts, but for families like the Pillays in Lenasia , the promise of stability has not arrived.
This week, a prolonged power outage and bitter cold claimed the life of Rehana Pillay, a wife, mother of four, and oxygen-dependent resident a stark reminder that behind policy announcements, the human cost of an unreliable grid is still being counted. Pillay, who lived at home with oxygen support, deteriorated rapidly when the electricity failed and temperatures plunged.
Community leaders confirmed she was rushed to hospital during the outage. Despite emergency efforts, she passed away, leaving behind her husband Dean Pillay and their children: Ashwin, Ashton, Bryton and Mikaila. “She was a quiet, caring presence,” neighbors said. “Always at home with the kids. Everyone knew her.”
Her death has sent a ripple through Lenasia , a community already navigating daily water cuts, infrastructure failures, and now winter weather that turns a power cut into a health crisis. In a statement released to the community, residents extended condolences to the Pillay family.
“Our hearts are heavy,” the statement read. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dean, Ashwin, Ashton, Bryton, Mikaila and all loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May her soul rest in peace, and may the family find strength and comfort.”
The family also paid tribute to LHC Ambulance Service.”We offer a special thank you to LHC Ambulance Service for their phenomenal and compassionate assistance,” the statement said. “Your prompt response and support during a critical moment are greatly appreciated.”
Pillay’s passing comes at a time when national government insists the worst of loadshedding is behind us. Yet the shift to “load reduction” has not eliminated the danger for medically vulnerable households who rely on electricity for life-support equipment, refrigeration of medication, and heating. For many in townships and suburbs across Gauteng, backup power remains unaffordable. During cold snaps, a few hours without electricity can become life-threatening.
“This is not just about inconvenience anymore,” said one community leader. “This is about survival. We need contingency plans registers of oxygen users, priority restoration, community generators. We cannot keep losing people.”
The incident has renewed urgent calls for municipalities and the Department of Health to create formal support systems for households dependent on medical devices during outages.The Pillay family has invited the community to pay their respects. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, 14 August 2026, 8:AM from 51 Hydrangea Avenue, Lenasia to Mission for Jesus Church, 33 Dimpel Street, Extension 13, Lenasia .
The family has asked for prayers and support as they navigate this painful loss. In press briefings, officials talk megawatts, maintenance schedules, and grid recovery. In Lenasia this week, the conversation was different: a mother lost, four children grieving, and neighbors asking how many more tragedies it will take before “load reduction” stops costing lives. For now, candles, blankets, and ambulance sirens fill the space where policy has not yet reached.
