The Candice vs Cancer crowdfunding campaign has become a powerful example of how people can come together in support of someone facing an incredibly difficult health journey. Candice Labuschagne, a Cape Town resident, has been living with inflammatory breast cancer since July 2023, a rare and aggressive form of the disease. Over time, her story has resonated with many, and through her BackaBuddy campaign, 49 donors helped her surpass her R40 000 goal, raising over R54 000 to support her ongoing treatment and medical expenses.
If you’re facing a similar challenge, you can start a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy here.
A Long and Demanding Medical Journey
Candice’s journey has not been straightforward. Since her diagnosis, she has undergone multiple forms of treatment, including five different chemotherapy regimens, repeated radiation sessions, and several major surgeries, including a double mastectomy.
Alongside this, she has endured frequent hospital stays, blood transfusions, scans, and ongoing medical procedures. In 2025, her situation became even more complex when the cancer spread to her stomach lining. A large tumour was discovered, requiring stronger chemotherapy and urgent medical intervention. Through it all, Candice continued working for as long as she could, only stepping back in October 2025 as her health demands increased.
When Medical Aid Isn’t Enough
Even with medical aid, the reality many patients face is that not all treatments, medications, or procedures are fully covered. For Candice, this meant mounting out-of-pocket costs, from hospital bills and scans to medication and ongoing weekly chemotherapy treatments. The financial strain became overwhelming.
“I am a proud person, and asking for help hasn’t been easy,” she shared in her campaign. “But I feel I have no other option.”
Her goal was simple and practical, to cover overdue medical expenses and help fund the next phase of her treatment until her oncology benefits reset.
49 People, One Shared Purpose
What followed is something we see time and time again on BackaBuddy: people showing up. Friends, family, and even strangers contributed what they could. Some gave once, others shared her story, helping it reach more people. Together, 49 donors raised over R54 000, exceeding her goal.
That support has helped ease the immediate financial pressure, allowing Candice to focus more fully on her health and treatment. This is what crowdfunding looks like at its best: small acts of kindness adding up to something that genuinely changes someone’s day-to-day reality.
The Real Impact Behind the Numbers
Reaching and surpassing her goal means more than just covering costs. It means:
- Fewer delays in accessing treatment
- Less stress about unpaid medical bills
- The ability to continue necessary chemotherapy
- Space to focus on healing, not just surviving financially
For someone navigating a serious illness, that kind of relief matters deeply. It allows energy to be directed where it’s needed most.
Why Stories Like Candice’s Matter
Candice’s campaign reflects something bigger than a single fundraising effort. It highlights how many people are quietly facing similar challenges, managing illness while trying to keep up with financial demands that often feel out of reach. It also shows how powerful it can be when people come together, even in small ways. No single donation carried the campaign; it was the collective effort that made the difference.
A Reminder of What’s Possible
Candice’s journey is ongoing, but this milestone is a meaningful one. It’s a reminder that asking for help, while difficult, can open the door for others to step in with compassion and generosity. And it shows that people are willing to support when they understand the need.
To follow Candice’s journey or learn more about her story, visit her BackaBuddy campaign here. If you’re unable to donate, sharing her story can still make a difference.
Launch your own crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy
After reading Candice’s story, you might know someone facing medical costs, education needs, or a difficult life moment. BackaBuddy has helped raise over R630 million for causes across South Africa, connecting people who need help with those who want to give.
