Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape, Malcolm Katz, a well-known and much-loved member of the Plettenberg Bay community, is facing the daily realities of living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). What began as a personal appeal through the Malcolm Katz ALS support campaign quickly became something much bigger, as people from across his community and beyond stepped forward to stand with him.
In just over a month, a BackaBuddy campaign created in his honour raised R226 883, surpassing its R200 000 goal through the generosity of 128 donors.
A Life Built on Connection
If you’ve spent time in Plettenberg Bay, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Malcolm.
For years, he was the friendly face behind the local Mugg & Bean. People remember more than just the coffee, they remember how he made them feel. Welcomed. Seen. Part of something.
That same spirit carried into every part of his life. Time with his wife Marcia, their children Danny and Limor, long walks, music, games with friends. Malcolm has always been someone who brought people together.
Living with ALS
Two years ago, Malcolm was diagnosed with ALS, a progressive condition that slowly affects movement and muscle control.
At first, the changes were subtle. Today, everyday tasks are becoming harder. He still manages short distances with a walker, but his mobility is increasingly limited.
His family began preparing for what lies ahead.
They knew that soon, Malcolm would need specialised support to remain comfortable at home, including an electric wheelchair and an adjustable care bed. Equipment that would allow him to move, rest, and continue engaging with the people and spaces he loves.
The cost of that care is significant. So they asked for help.
Malcolm's Community Shows Up
What followed has been deeply moving.
Donations came in not just from close friends and family, but from people whose lives Malcolm had touched over the years, some in small, quiet ways that were never forgotten.
Alongside the donations came messages that tell their own story:
“To my special friend, please accept a small token of my appreciation for our friendship.”
“Malcolm and Marcia. Our families go way back. This is in honour of all the love and warmth your late mom Z"L Golda and dad Z"L Selwyn gave to my family. May Hashem watch over you all. We send love. Always.”
“I knew Malcolm as we shared a fence in Fairmount a long time ago. He was always a warm, friendly neighbour. Our family wishes him well.”
These aren’t just messages. They are reminders of a life lived with kindness, generosity, and genuine human connection. Within weeks, the campaign reached its goal and kept going.
More Than Financial Support
The funds raised will go toward essential equipment and care. But the impact goes far beyond that.
It has given Malcolm’s family breathing room during an incredibly difficult time. It has allowed them to focus on care, on time together, on being present.
And for Malcolm, it’s something even more personal, knowing that the people he has shown up for over the years are now showing up for him.
A Shared Effort
Every donation tells a story.
A customer who remembers a conversation.
A friend from years ago.
A neighbour who wanted to help in some small way.
Together, those stories have created something meaningful.
Malcolm spent years bringing people together without ever expecting anything in return. Now, that same community is standing beside him.
Continuing the Journey
Although the initial goal has been reached, Malcolm’s journey with ALS is ongoing. His needs will continue to evolve over time, and support will remain an important part of that journey.
For those who would like to contribute or follow along, the campaign remains open.
👉 Visit the campaign page to support Malcolm
Sharing his story can also help reach someone who may want to stand alongside him and his family.
Launch your own crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy
Stories like Malcolm’s remind us how powerful community support can be, whether it’s for medical care, education, emergencies, or helping someone through a difficult season. BackaBuddy has helped raise over R630 million for causes across South Africa.
