Cape Town, Western Cape — A Cape Town firefighter who spent decades protecting lives, homes, and the environment is now receiving an outpouring of support from the very community he has long served, after being diagnosed with cancer.
Mark Randall (63), a father of three and long-serving member of Volunteer Wildfire Services, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate.
A Life of Showing Up for Others
Known for his unwavering commitment to others, Mark has spent years being the person people could rely on without hesitation.
“There are some people in life who simply show up, no questions asked. Mark is one of those rare people,” his family shared.
Whether helping friends, mentoring fellow firefighters, or supporting those in need, Mark has consistently given of himself without expecting anything in return.
A Firefighter and Mentor
Mark dedicated more than 20 years to Volunteer Wildfire Services, serving as a crew leader before continuing as a driver after sustaining an injury.
“This is not just a hobby for my dad, from the start the VWS became an important part of his life. My dad gives so much of his time, his sleep and his safety to help and keep the people of the Western Cape safe. The VWS is a really strong unit and they have become like a second family to my dad. He will do anything for them, and they will do anything for him.”
He remained deeply involved, mentoring others and standing by his team through difficult moments.
“He is the one people turn to for advice, for a listening ear, and for a shoulder to cry on,” his daughter said.
A Sudden Diagnosis
What began as minor health concerns quickly escalated into a life-changing diagnosis.
“What we hoped would be a simple procedure turned into life-changing news,” his daughter shared.
Mark is currently receiving treatment at a state hospital and still requires further tests to determine the full extent of the disease and his treatment plan.
“I am a bit in disbelief because the doctors have not given a complete diagnosis or a treatment plan. All we know is what they have told my dad. It’s cancer. It’s aggressive.”
A Community Steps In
In just a few days, the campaign has gained strong momentum, raising over R135,000 through the support of 131 donors, bringing the family close to their R150,000 goal.
Messages of support have poured in from those whose lives Mark has touched.
“Nobody shows up more than Mark. We’re behind you,” one supporter shared.
Another added, “Now it is our turn to care.”
“The support has been incredible. Just seeing how much my dad means to so many people is amazing.”
A Man Who Finds It Hard to Ask for Help
Despite the overwhelming support, Mark has struggled to accept help.
“Mark is not someone who asks for help. He gives selflessly, always from the heart,” his daughter said.
“My dad has always been young at heart, so physically I don’t think he believes that his body is almost turning 63. As for his emotional state, my dad always stays positive and is ready to take on the next challenge, like he says, ‘this is just another fire for him to fight.’”
Every contribution helps ensure he can focus on healing, surrounded by the same care and compassion he has always shown others.
“As far as I know, my dad is carrying on as normal. He still goes to work, picks up his team, and spends time caring for his plants and wild birds when he gets home.”
A Family Facing the Unknown
“When kids grow up they are made to believe that their dads are heroes. My dad is an actual hero, helping countless people without wanting anything in return. The most difficult part is that something was able to actually touch him, and not get all the necessary information to form a plan to help him.”
“What will help most in the coming weeks is more information on his current condition from his doctors so that we can plan and support my dad correctly.”
“We are so grateful. The support from all around means so much and it fills my heart with hope and gratitude.”
If you are unable to donate, sharing his story can help reach others who can.
To support Mark Randall, visit his BackaBuddy campaign page:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/the-legend
