On June 9, 2024, nineteen committed athletes will converge on the starting line of the 97th Comrades Marathon, the world-renowned 90-kilometer ultramarathon stretching from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
This year, these runners are not only challenging their physical and mental limits but are also rallying to support Rainbows and Smiles, a community-based charitable foundation dedicated to providing emotional, social, and financial support to children diagnosed with cancer or a life-threatening illness, and their families and caregivers.
Denise, Tammy, and Bonni Run for Rainbows
Bonni Suckling (50) from North Riding, Johannesburg, the founder of Rainbows and Smiles, is leading a passionate team in the Comrades Marathon for the seventh time. In 2008, the devastating diagnosis of her four-year-old son, Jed, with terminal brain cancer turned her world upside down. Despite enduring three major brain operations, 35 radiation treatments, and experimental chemotherapy, Jed tragically passed away in his mother’s arms three years later. The profound grief led Bonni to a pivotal moment in an ICU ward following a personal crisis. It was there that she decided to transform her anguish into a force for good, founding Rainbows and Smiles to provide essential support to families facing similar battles.
Pictured above: Friends Bonni Suckling, Tammy Gray, and Denise Towell
Joining Bonni are Denise Towell (64) from Durban, the KZN Regional Manager for Rainbows and Smiles, gearing up for her 21st Comrades Marathon, and Tammy Gray (50) from Durban North, preparing for her second race. Both women are deeply committed to the cause, sharing a common mission to raise funds and awareness for children with cancer. Their personal goals for the race underline their unwavering dedication and passion, reinforcing the collective impact of their efforts.
Support Bonni, Tammy, and Denise’s campaign here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/denise-tammy-and-bon-run-for-rainbows
René Runs for Rainbows
René Memmel (40), from Johannesburg, an employee at his family-owned business in Wynberg, Sandton, is on his incredible journey of running his 2nd Comrades. This run is more than just kilometers on the road for René; it’s an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children with cancer. He has chosen to dedicate this endeavor to Rainbows and Smiles, an organization that holds a special place in his heart. René’s goal is to raise R8591, symbolizing his commitment to the cause.
Pictured above: René Memmel
Support René’s campaign here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/rene-runs-for-rainbows
Adrienne Runs for Rainbows
Adrienne Melnick (49), from Roodepoort, Johannesburg, is preparing for her first Comrades Marathon. Growing up watching the event with her parents, Adrienne was inspired to join despite her training partner Richard having to withdraw due to an injury. Her involvement with Rainbows and Smiles has deepened her commitment to helping children with cancer.
Pictured above: Adrienne Melnick
Support Adrienne’s campaign here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/adrienne-runs-for-rainbows
Rianette Runs for Rainbows
Rianette Vd Linde (39), an ICU nurse from the Free State, was profoundly impacted by the fragility of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her personal journey is deeply rooted in her family’s experience; her sister Hannelie was just 15 years old when she died of brain cancer. Now, Rianette runs in her sister’s memory, and her conversation with Bonni revealed a remarkable connection: Hannelie and Bonni’s son Jed shared the same diagnosis. This divine calling fills Rianette’s heart with love and purpose.
Support Rianette’s Campaign here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/rianette-runs-for-rainbows
Impact of Your Generosity
Together, the nineteen runners have already raised over R100,000 towards their collective goal of R109,591 with the help of 207 incredible donors. The funds raised are crucial for Rainbows and Smiles to continue providing essential services such as nutritious food parcels, therapeutic craft activities, financial assistance for medical and funeral expenses, and celebratory bell-ringing ceremonies to mark the end of treatment.