19-year-old Aidan Roos from Three Rivers Vereeniging had his life dramatically altered in a matter of seconds. Aidan, a passionate stunt biker, faced a life-altering accident on the 9th of February 2024 that not only shattered his dreams but also left his family grappling with unforeseen challenges.
The incident occurred innocently enough – a routine trip to Asia Yummy for takeout turned into a nightmare as Aidan slipped on a wet floor, his face colliding with a balustrade. What initially seemed like minor injuries took a grave turn after a hospital visit and X-rays uncovered a more severe situation.
Image above: Aidan Roos with his mum, Roeline
Making the situation even harder was the absence of medical assistance for Aidan and his family. The hospital couldn’t perform the facial operation because Aidan’s face was swollen, so they had to send him home. However, Aidan’s insurance refused to cover the operation, claiming that the hospital should have kept him instead of sending him home.
Aidan’s dreams of heading overseas for bike stunts and mini movie scenes in China were abruptly halted. “This accident has changed everything for Aidan and has made his bright future come to a standstill,” his mom Roeline expressed. The recovery prognosis, estimated at six months, adds a layer of complexity to the situation.
Image above: Aidan in hospital after the accident
On the 19th of February 2024, Aidan underwent extensive surgery to address multiple fractures in his facial bones. The procedure involved delicate work to repair nerves and muscles, including the placement of plates under the eye socket. Aidan’s entire frontal skull required meticulous reconstruction as his face was broken in five places, marking a pivotal moment in his journey to recovery.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
In the face of this adversity, Aidan’s family turned to the power of community support.
Launching a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, they urgently sought financial assistance to cover the expenses of Aidan’s surgery. The response from the community has been nothing short of miraculous, with over R114,000 raised towards their fundraising target of R160 000, thanks to the generosity of 60 amazing donors.
Image above: Aidan in hospital after his operation
Aidan’s mom Roeline expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “Out of the bottom of my heart, I just want to thank everyone for their generosity, love, and support and most of all everyone’s prayers.” The funds raised have already made a significant impact, securing Aidan’s chance at a healthy, normal life.
While Aidan has successfully undergone surgery, his battle is far from over. The family still needs to raise funds for his aftercare, scans, MRIs, and more. The ongoing support from the community is crucial in ensuring Aidan’s continued recovery and eventual return to the life he loves.
Zora Wegerif, a 22-year-old talented swimmer and part-time intern from Pretoria has qualified to represent South Africa in the Trisome Games 2024 – an international sporting event specifically for athletes with Down Syndrome. This prestigious competition is set to take place in Turkey from 19 – 26 March 2024, offering a platform for these exceptional athletes to showcase their talents on a global stage.
From early childhood, Zora’s affinity for water prompted her family to prioritize her safety through water safety classes. Independently swimming by the age of eight, Zora’s aquatic journey continued in South Africa with coach Tadhg Slattery and the Mandeville Dolphins Swim Club. Post-Covid lockdowns, she found a new home in the Swim4Life club, training rigorously four days a week.
Pictured above: Talented swimmer, Zora Wegerif
“Swimming has always been so important to Zora’s development. Because she has always competed and done well against swimmers with and without disabilities, swimming has been a space where she enters with confidence and determination to succeed.” says Marc, Zora’s dad.
Zora began competitively swimming in Tanzania, where her love for competitive swimming took root. Joining the Dar Swim Club, she became the only child with Down Syndrome in a group of diverse swimmers from different schools in Dar. Undeterred, Zora not only participated but excelled in swimming galas, fostering a love for the sport within an inclusive environment that pushed her to be the best version of herself.
Zora’s swimming prowess shone in national events, earning her two gold medals in the 2018 South Africa National Special Olympics qualifying gala and four bronze medals in the 2023 National Gala organized by the South African Sports Association for the Intellectually Impaired in Rustenburg. However, the path to the Trisome Games is marred by challenges stemming from the financial and administrative struggles of the official national association in South Africa.
Pictured above: Zora at her part-time internship at Kgololo Academy in Alexandra Township
“I am so excited to go to Turkey and I am working so hard to get strong for the games. I want to wear the South African colours proudly and wave our flag high.” says Zora excitedly.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Despite facing these hurdles, Zora’s commitment to her sport remains unyielding. To bridge the financial gap, Zora’s family launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, with a target of R35,925. The response from the community has been nothing short of heartwarming, with 32 donors contributing over R37,000, surpassing the initial goal.
Zora’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the donors who have played a crucial role in turning her dreams into reality. Their generosity not only covers the logistical and financial aspects of Zora’s journey to the Trisome Games but also advocates for inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports.
Pictured above: Zora and a teammate from her swim team
“To our friends, family, and strangers who have donated we are beyond grateful. So many who have donated have known Zora for all or most of her life and have witnessed her overcome challenges and rise above sometimes low expectations that are often based on prejudice and ignorance. We are so grateful for their friendship, support and love they have shown Zora”, the family concludes.
As Zora prepares to represent South Africa on the global stage, her story becomes a beacon of inspiration. It reminds us that, with unwavering support and determination, athletes like Zora can overcome challenges and compete on a level playing field. Your support has not only empowered Zora but also contributed to a narrative of triumph and inclusivity that resonates far beyond the pool.
Bill Du Plessis, a 36-year-old data analyst from Boksburg, faced a devastating accident that changed the course of his life forever, leaving him with an amputated leg and the hope of acquiring a new prosthetic leg.
Pictured above: Bill Du Plessis
Six years ago in 2017, Bill faced a life-altering event – a motorbike accident which took place during a motorsport photography session that set in motion a series of challenges that would test the limits of his courage. The accident left Bill with the bones in his left ankle shattered and was told that he could not get an ankle replacement because he was under 50. This left him with only one option, to have his ankle fused back together. However, during the third operation which took place in a government hospital aspiring medical students who were operating on Bill, inadvertently damaged the main arteries in his left leg, casting an unforeseen shadow over Bill’s future.
“My life has changed a lot. Before the accident I was a very active person, running with my dog and playing indoor soccer. But, since the operation to fuse my ankle, I have not been able to run or play soccer at all anymore.” says Bill.
Pictured above: Bill with his dog Blaze at the beach
Fast forward to December 2022, a month that marked the onset of a new and agonizing chapter. The blood supply to Bill’s foot, the same leg that bore the scars of those earlier operations, ceased. February 2023, however, brought a glimmer of hope with a bypass attempt on one of the three arteries from below Bill’s knee to his foot. However, after wasting time and putting Bill on a waiting list for the bypass, it was too late when they operated as two of the arteries totally collapsed and were not functioning at all and the third one was so brittle that they could not attempt the bypass on it. A subsequent operation, just three days later, was necessitated by the formation of a hematoma under one of the incisions. The pain that followed over the next month was unbearable, leading to the inevitable – the urgent amputation of Bill’s leg in March 2023.
“We often take things for granted in life until they are taken away from us. Even the simplest things, like holding my girlfriend’s hand while walking, seems like a luxury now. My life has completely changed after the accident, and thereafter the amputation. I am no longer the same person. Everything is much harder for me now, and even the people in my life have changed. Some I thought would support me are nowhere to be seen. I have been on crutches for so long that I do not even remember what it feels like to walk. Although I consider myself a strong person, there are days when it all gets too much for me.” explains Bill.
The past 10 months have been a relentless battle, with wound care and physiotherapy becoming the norm, a painful routine that Bill endures three times a week. Amidst this struggle, tragedy struck again as Bill’s father, Marius Du Plessis, a pillar of support, passed away at 59-years-old in April 2023 due to heart failure, just 15 days after Bill’s amputation.
Pictured above: Bill with his dad Marius and his dog Blaze
Through the harrowing journey of physical and emotional pain, Bill remains strong. He faces each day with a determination that leaves everyone in awe. The gym has become his sanctuary, a place where he channels his resilience into daily training, embracing a healthy lifestyle that speaks volumes about his character.
“I wake up every morning at 4am to go to the gym. It gives me a sense of normality and allows me to push myself as much as my body allows. The gym is the only place where I have control over my body and can see changes and growth, both physically and mentally. I have always lived a fit and healthy lifestyle, and losing my leg was not going to stop me from continuing on that path. My goal is to inspire and motivate others in my position, to show them that they too can make a difference and continue getting stronger one day at a time.” Bill says.
Pictured above: Bill at his sanctuary, the gym
Yet, as Bill dreams of a future where he can run, hike, and simply hold hands while walking, the financial burden of medical bills looms large. The hope for a new prosthetic leg seems distant, with a quote of R126,500 standing between him and the freedom to move as he once did.
“I have been dealing with numerous medical bills for years and as a result, I can’t afford to buy a prosthetic leg. The prosthetic leg that I was quoted for will not only make me more active but also give me a sense of normalcy again. If I can raise enough money through BackaBuddy, it will give me hope and make my dream of walking again a reality.” explains Bill.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Bill has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddywhere he has already raised over R40 000 towards his R126 500 goal with the help of 12 wonderful donors.
Pictured above: Bill with his girlfriend Kathrine Robinson
“I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to those who have contributed to my campaign. It’s the kind and empathetic people who are willing to put themselves in someone else’s “shoes” that truly leave a lasting impression on my heart. Donating towards my prosthetics will give me a new lease on life and greatly aid in my journey towards recovery and increased mobility.” concludes Bill.
His pride and bravery radiate in the face of adversity, and his unwavering commitment to healing and recovery is nothing short of remarkable.
Greg Dennis (35), a group account director, and his wife Bianca (33), an interior designer from Johannesburg have embarked on a unique journey to welcome baby Dennis into their lives, through IVF.
Greg and Bianca’s love story began when they met in a nightclub in 2009 and after realizing that Bianca hadn’t really taken to him at first, Greg played the long game and crept into her DM’s to see how he could get to spend more time with her, and well, we can say that it all worked out in his favor.
Pictured above: Young Greg and Bianca Dennis during their early dating days
“We dated for about 4 years before I proposed to her on a beach in Cape Town. We were engaged for about 2 years and then we had the most beautiful wedding in 2016. It was only then did we move in with each other, bought our first house together, had fur-babies, and the rest is history.” says Greg.
Their story is woven with moments of joy, laughter, and companionship, but the missing piece of their puzzle is the sound of a child’s laughter. After getting married, Greg and Bianca decided to spend the first 2-3 years of their marriage enjoying each other’s company, and going on adventures with the plan to try to have a family a bit later on in their lives. But, the couple reached a pivotal point in their quest for parenthood as they faced a tumultuous emotional rollercoaster when they were faced with the harsh reality of infertility, and doctors recommended IVF as the next step.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their engagement photoshoot
“We can’t help but think that if we only knew that we would struggle to have a baby after waiting we probably would have started sooner. Becoming parents has always been a part of our planned life and not knowing the amount of hurdles we would encounter along the way is heartbreaking. But, if there’s one thing I know is that Bianca would be the most amazing mom. Caring, nurturing, a little crazy, but the best mom ever.” says Greg.
However, the financial burden associated with IVF presented an unforeseen challenge. So they tried other routes, along the more natural path as well as medicated. When this did not work out, Greg and Bianca spoke to friends and family and that’s where they were given the suggestion of crowdfunding for IVF.
“We were hesitant to ask people for money. But, others assured us that it’s a brave thing to do, it’s got a good cause and everyone would be open to donating. So we did it” explains Greg.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their wedding in 2016
Motivated and with encouragement from their loved ones, Greg and Bianca decided to share their story and raise funds for their IVF journey, along with a heartwarming and creative idea. They introduced a 1000-piece puzzle, where supporters could contribute financially and have their names written on the back of the puzzle pieces. This beautiful mosaic of love and support will find its place in Baby Dennis’s nursery, symbolizing the unity of a community that came together to make a dream come true.
“We came across the idea of the puzzle a while back and always thought it would be a great way to always think of the journey we went through, the people who supported us, and something for baby Dennis to remember how loved they are. We’re also a family and friend group that loves games and board games so it was quite fitting. We felt that with so many people wanting to help make our dream a reality, every contribution was like adding a puzzle piece to our dream, that when complete it would be a reminder of the support and love we have from everyone. Especially because we’ll be adding their names to each piece of the puzzle.” explains the couple.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
With the financial aspect of IVF being a daunting challenge for them, Greg and Bianca decided to start a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, where they have raised over R100 000 of their R200 000 target with the help of over 100 donors.
The funds raised will cover not only the IVF procedure itself but also the essential medications, ultrasounds, and embryo testing.
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca enjoying a day at the beach
“We know that IVF is not always guaranteed and we know that everyone contributing to our dream knows this too. We’re really grateful for the love and support we’ve received. Everyone is so generous and we could never have done this without all of you. Baby Dennis will have a lot of thank you cards to write on their birthday every year.” says the couple.
In the vibrant suburb of Rosebank, Cape Town, Lauren and Luke Kincaid, both 38, are on an incredible journey marked by unexpected challenges and the unwavering support of their community as they navigate the tough road of infertility.
Their journey together began on a dating site, Tinder, seven years ago, swiftly blossoming into a deep connection that seemed destined. Though their anticipated wedding in May 2020 was delayed due to the pandemic, they eventually tied the knot in February 2021, eagerly anticipating the start of their family.
Pictured above: Luke and Lauren Kincaid
Their path to parenthood, however, was met with unforeseen obstacles. Lauren’s fervent dream of motherhood faced challenges when difficulties conceiving arose after months of trying. Medical intervention became necessary, yet navigating the realm of fertility treatments revealed a series of setbacks and unexpected diagnoses.
Despite several unsuccessful rounds of IVF in April and July 2023 stemming from Lauren’s low ovarian reserve, a glimmer of hope emerged with a different diagnosis—Hypopituitarism. This discovery opened doors to a specialized treatment using injectable medication available in the private sector, potentially enabling Lauren to conceive using her own eggs.
“After the first IVF failed my heart was crushed with disappointment and sadness but there was still hope that it could happen for us on a second round of IVF. However, when our second round failed due to no eggs and we were told that our only option now would probably be using a donor egg my world felt like it was coming crashing down around me. I had always imagined being a mother but never like this. I assumed that my child would look like me so that information was shocking and heartbreaking to take in. I just cried when the doctor relayed the news, but, after processing it that evening, both Luke and I realized that it was still a blessing that there was still a way for us to become parents even if it is a bit unconventional.” says Lauren.
However, financial constraints became a significant barrier. The overwhelming costs of fertility treatments, scans, and medications stretched their resources thin, hindering access to the required treatment.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
In light of these challenges, Lauren and Luke turned to crowdfunding on BackaBuddy, where their story resonated deeply with friends, family, and compassionate strangers.
Over R50,000 was raised with the support of over 40 donors, helping them realize their dream of parenthood.
Pictured above: Luke and Lauren at an event
“We are immensely grateful for the overwhelming support and contributions received thus far. We acknowledge the pivotal role that every donation plays in bringing us closer to our dream of becoming parents. We wholeheartedly believe that with the support of our community, we can overcome this seemingly insurmountable challenge.” Lauren expresses.
Their journey embodies the resilience of the human spirit, underscored by the enduring power of hope and love. Your continued contributions and support are pivotal in making their dream a reality.
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R490 Million.
Image above: Aidan Roos with his mum, Roeline
Image above: Aidan in hospital after the accident
Image above: Aidan in hospital after his operation
Pictured above: Talented swimmer, Zora Wegerif
Pictured above: Zora at her part-time internship at Kgololo Academy in Alexandra Township
Pictured above: Zora and a teammate from her swim team
Pictured above: Bill Du Plessis
Pictured above: Bill with his dog Blaze at the beach
Pictured above: Bill with his dad Marius and his dog Blaze
Pictured above: Bill at his sanctuary, the gym
Pictured above: Bill with his girlfriend Kathrine Robinson
Pictured above: Young Greg and Bianca Dennis during their early dating days
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their engagement photoshoot
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca at their wedding in 2016
Pictured above: Greg and Bianca enjoying a day at the beach
