James Dunford (19) from Hillcrest, Kwa-Zulu Natal, is a courageous and resilient young man who has found himself thrust into a battle against osteosarcoma, a ruthless cancer that occurs in the bones. Yet, amid the darkness of his diagnosis, James’s spirit shines brightly, illuminating a path of hope and strength for all who know him.
Pictured above: 19-year-old James Dunford
“James is an incredibly determined young man, with an unwavering commitment to achieving his goals. He enjoys the outdoors and is always eager to try new things. He is incredibly kind and loves to give unconditionally. His unyielding faith provides him with an inner strength.” says Brett, James’ dad.
James’ journey began in October 2022, during his grade 11 year at Westville Boys High, when he first experienced the agonising pain in his knee. What followed were scans, biopsies, and a diagnosis that would change his life forever. Despite the daunting road ahead, James faced his treatment with determination, undergoing surgery in Pretoria to remove the tumour and preserve his leg.
“Learning of my osteosarcoma diagnosis I initially didn’t show any emotions, focusing on reassuring my family and girlfriend that I was okay. I believed that showing them my strength would help them stay strong. However, as I processed the true implications of the diagnosis and the sacrifices ahead, I became overwhelmed with confusion. I questioned why this was happening to me, feeling as though I was being robbed of typical experiences for a seventeen-year-old, such as planning for the future, attending university, and participating in sports that I loved.” says James.
Pictured above: James and his family at a birthday party
But the battle was far from over while writing his matric last year James also went through chemotherapy and further surgeries which forced him to leave behind the familiar halls of Westville Boys High School at the end of his grade 11 year in 2022. Undeterred, he enrolled in Curro online at the beginning of the academic year in 2023 with the determination of completing his matric. Even as the cancer spread to his lungs, James remained steadfast in his pursuit of education, bravely writing his exams amidst ongoing treatment.
However, during his mid-year trials and three months into his remission James and his family found out the osteosarcoma had spread to his lungs – making it stage four. James had decided to have surgery to remove the tumour and through all of this he was able to achieve a bachelors pass for his matric year.
“Brett and I had come to terms with James facing a challenging battle in 2022 and 2023, but we never anticipated the osteosarcoma spreading to his lungs so aggressively. Our hearts ache for James and our family as we grapple with his prognosis. While we strive to be realistic, we also hold onto faith and hope, knowing that miracles can happen in this fight.” says James’ mum Tamlyn
In January 2024, James underwent yet another round of surgeries, including a lobectomy, which is the removal of a lobe in the lung, in a relentless effort to combat the cancer that threatened his life. Despite the physical toll of his treatments, James’s spirit remains unbroken. He finds solace in his passions – from his love for Formula 1 to his appreciation for nature and music, particularly his skillful strumming of the guitar.
Pictured above: James out for early morning fishing
“Despite all my other passions, the most significant one I grew was the love for the Lord Jesus Christ . I learnt that despite whatever situation you have or what you are going through despite how bad it is, at the end of the day we are saved by his grace, so what more is there to ask for . I like to think of the verse Romans 8:18. “The pain that you’ve been feeling, can’t compare to the joy that’s coming.” As I journeyed through cancer, my other passions grew. Listening to music became my escape during chemotherapy treatment and it helped me sleep at night. I started to practise playing my guitars for multiple hours a day. Additionally my love for motor sport grew especially after my knee replacement hindered certain movements. Despite this, driving remained a source of freedom and normalcy for me, allowing me to operate a car as if nothing had changed. This led me to watching and seeking to expand my knowledge and appreciation for the sport.” explains James
Yet, amidst the strength and resilience, there lies a palpable sense of urgency. Recent medical procedures have brought sobering news, with doctors predicting that James may have only one year left to live. Faced with this stark reality, James is determined to seize every precious moment, creating lasting memories with his beloved family.
But the road ahead is not without its challenges. As medical expenses mount and James’s needs evolve, the Dunford family finds themselves in need of support – from financial assistance to the hiring of a nurse/carer and home adaptations to accommodate James’s needs.
Pictured above: James with his family at the hospital
To alleviate the financial burden, a really good friend of the family, Taryn Armour, has started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised over R114 000 of his R500 000 with the help of 82 incredible donors.
“We are absolutely blown away by how kind everyone has been. The money raised will allow James to tick off his bucket list and make the most amazing memories with loved ones along the way. Long term we will need to look at adapting our home to James requirements.” says James’ parents.
As a community, we have the power to make a difference in James’s life – to stand beside him, offering our love, support, and encouragement every step of the way. Together, let us rally around this remarkable young man and his family, ensuring that they are able to celebrate life and create cherished memories, free from the confines of hospital walls and treatment rooms.
“To me, a donor is someone who selflessly offers something from themselves to help another person or cause. Whether it’s time, money, support or prayers. I want to express my immense gratitude. Thank you for providing me with the opportunity to pursue activities I enjoy and create the most amazing memories with my family and loved ones.” says James.