Nine-year-old Amogelang Kgobe Matloga from Pretoria is facing a heartbreaking relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), just months after completing his initial treatment. Yet in the face of this devastating diagnosis, it is his quiet courage and unshakable faith that have moved hearts across the country—sparking a wave of generosity as global donors rally to support his family through an online crowdfunding campaign.
Originally from the small village of Botlokwa in Polokwane, Amo is a quiet, gentle soul with a love for soccer and a deep connection to his faith.
“He likes being in charge and in control of things,” says his mother, Annah. “He really has a strong personality and a strong spirit. As young as he is, his faith is so unshakable—it amazes me every day.”
Since his initial diagnosis in August 2024, Amo has shown resilience beyond his years. While treatment has brought many challenges, he finds comfort in his family—especially his older brother (13) and younger brother (5)—and joy in the simple moments, like outings for ice cream or time together at church.
“We are the most close-knit family one could ever ask for,” Annah says. “There is nothing we love more than spending time together, especially in the house of the Lord.”
But their lives changed dramatically when Amo relapsed in May 2025. The family’s only hope now lies in a bone marrow transplant—with his father currently identified as a 50% match. While this brings some comfort, the financial strain has grown heavier since his father lost his job in March, making it difficult to afford the ongoing hospital visits, tests, and medications.
Determined to help her son get the life-saving care he needs, Annah launched a heartfelt campaign on BackaBuddy on 19 June 2025 to raise funds for his transplant.
“After receiving news of him relapsing, my world turned upside down,” she shares. “But then I remembered who my life redeemer is—the one who created Heaven and Earth.”
Her words on the campaign page echo the strength and hope that carry their family forward:
“We humbly ask for your generosity. Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a profound difference in his fight against cancer.”
So far, the campaign has raised over R51,000 towards their R250,000 goal, with support pouring in from 176 generous donors. Every donation, every message of encouragement has helped restore the family’s hope.
“To everyone who has supported us, we will forever be grateful,” Annah says. “Your generosity really means so much to us—and to our beautiful Amogelang too.”
Thanks to this growing circle of support, the Kgobe Matloga family no longer feels alone in their fight. “May you never lack, may your pocket never run dry,” Annah says. “Your support has been greatly appreciated.”
To join their journey and contribute to Amo’s healing, visit:
🔗 https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/hope-of-life-for-amogelang
Help Save Lives: Register as a Bone Marrow Donor
Amogelang’s story also highlights the critical need for more registered bone marrow donors in South Africa. Finding a matching donor can mean the difference between life and death for patients like Amo.
The South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR) encourages the public to join their registry and give someone in need a second chance at life. Learn more or register today at www.sabmr.co.za.
If you would like to start a campaign on BackaBuddy to support a loved one or cause close to your heart, Annah shares these words of encouragement:
“We are so grateful for this platform. It gives us hope every day that we will reach our destination and find the helpers we need.”