Life Esidimeni: Portraits of Lives Lost – Harriet Perlman & Mark Lewis

In late 2015 and 2016, South Africa witnessed a horrific tragedy. 144 people entrusted to the Gauteng public health system died from neglect, starvation and cruelty. This book examines the Life Esidimeni tragedy, offering a powerful narrative built on the stories of those most affected. When writer Harriet Perlman and photographer Mark Lewis set about documenting the lives of the families whose loved ones had died in this catastrophe, they were determined to honour the dead, and to recognise the sufferings of those left behind. They travelled far and wide, and listened to their stories. These heartbreaking stories, accompanied by powerful portraits by Mark Lewis, help the reader to forge a deep connection with the victims. These photographs are not just faces on a page, but a testament to the human cost of this tragedy. →