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13 Years After Reeva Steenkamp’s Death, Her Mother Has a Memory Breakthrough

The family reports a therapeutic reading routine helped June recognize loved ones.

Overview

  • On February 14, the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation shared an anniversary tribute and said they would honour Reeva by lighting a candle.
  • Diagnosed in 2025 with Wernicke’s aphasia after a stroke, June recently recognised photos and said “My baby” and “Barry,” referring to her daughter and late husband.
  • Caregivers had encouraged June to flip through magazines over several days to stimulate memory, describing the recognition as a mix of sorrow and triumph.
  • The family said they will not remind June of the date’s significance, emphasizing her peace and recovery while continuing the foundation’s work against gender-based violence.
  • Reeva was shot and killed by Oscar Pistorius in 2013; he was later convicted and released from prison under correctional provisions, a justice outcome the family views as a lingering wound.