On the morning of the 13 th March I went to drop off my kids as usual and locked my car so I can walk them to class...when I came back my car was open and my handbag and cell phone was gone! This is one of the most devastating feelings ever! My entire life was in that bag, history was in that bag, memories, accessories, business cards, lotions, perfumes. The list is endless! And don't get me started on the phone and purse.....
So I stood in the car park and cried, balled my eyes out then composed myself and went inside the school and checked the security cameras. It didn't cover the area where I had parked so nothing.
After that it sunk in. My bag is gone there is nothing I can do to bring it back I need to put on my big girl panties and move on.
So I started at the banks then the clothing stores. Then I went to Home Affairs to get my iD done. It was such a terrible experience, from the start when the security gave me the forms and I asked for a pen and she said-you must bring your own! My bag just got stolen where must I get a pen from??
Once I was done at home affairs I went to the police station. If your stuff is not insured you don't have to open a case, they just make an affidavit in case theres any fraudulent use of your ID.
Then I went back to the mall to do a sim swap and block my old card. Then I was just exhausted and done. I went home climbed under the covers and sulked.
So I thought I would make a list from my experience what to do in such situations. ..
1. Before you leave your car check that the doors are locked. You need to physically pull on the door handles. Thieves are using devices that block the signal when you try to lock your car, so you think you locked it but it didn't.
2. Dont leave your bag on the front seat. You rather take out what you need and put it in the boot.
3. If you discover your bag is stolen go to the banks immediately and stop your cards and Internet banking.
4. Stop your sim at your service provider.
5. Go to the police station and report your bag stolen and state that your ID and drivers was there. So in case someone marries you off to their foreign friends, you covered.
6. Notify your store cards. Don't forget medical aid and clicks.
7. And lastly change your attitude. As devastating as it is you not alone and you not the last. So put on a smile and go shopping for your new bag and contents. Its fun and yes it makes you feel happy again cause you realise its material things which can be replaced!!
I hope it helps you!!!
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