In a heartwarming turn of events, Carol de Swardt, a 62-year-old mother of five from George, has found renewed hope in her battle against kidney failure. After years of suffering, her eldest son, Cyril, has stepped forward with an extraordinary act of love and sacrifice.
Carol’s struggle began in 2020 when she first started showing symptoms of kidney failure. Her condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to severe swelling, constant fatigue, and relentless dehydration. By 2022, Carol’s health had declined to the point where she required dialysis—a gruelling four-hour procedure three times a week that left her feeling terrible afterwards. “I am constantly nauseous and vomit all the time. My back aches because of my diseased kidneys and I am always tired,” Carol told the George Herald. The illness runs in her family; her mother succumbed to kidney failure, and one of her grandsons has also recently started dialysis.
In May of this year, Carol’s doctor referred her to Dr. Trevor Gerntholtz, a nephrologist from Cape Town, who confirmed that she was a good candidate for a kidney transplant. The news brought a glimmer of hope to Carol’s life. However, the biggest surprise came from her eldest son, Cyril, who had been quietly preparing for this moment for over a year.
Pictured above: Carol and her son Cyril who will also be her donor
“I had such a wonderful surprise when my eldest son, Cyril (46), came to me earlier this year to say that he has been following a healthy lifestyle for a year now because he wanted to be healthy enough to donate a kidney to me. He had stopped smoking and drinking, but kept quiet about it for the entire year,” Carol recalled.
In addition to Cyril, Carol’s youngest son, Ferrier, also underwent tests to see if he could be a potential donor. Miraculously, he too was found to be a match. “This means that if the operation is not successful, I have yet another chance, so I am immensely grateful,” Carol said.
Cyril’s motivation for this selfless act stems from his deep love and appreciation for his mother. “It is my turn to give back. She sacrificed her own needs for our family’s well-being. I am her firstborn and it is the best way to show my love for her. I want to be there for her, to hold her hand, and to help her through this challenging time. I just want them to ‘plug and play’ now—take out my kidney and get it into her. We are ready to go. The longer we wait, the longer she has to suffer,” he expressed.
Pictured above: Carol and her daughter Samantha Shrives
Dr. Gerntholtz explained the high probability of children being a match for their parents due to shared genetic material. However, the process is not without risks. The receiver needs to be on strong anti-rejection medication post-operation, which can cause heart disease. For the donor, any surgery carries risks, but thorough evaluations ensure it is safe to proceed.
Complete recovery for both donor and receiver typically takes about three months. In the meantime, Cyril has started a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, “A selfless act of love: helping a son save his mother’s life” to raise funds for the necessary accommodations and travel expenses. Living in Pietermaritzburg, Cyril and his wife must fly to Cape Town for the operation at Groote Schuur Hospital, a cost they cannot afford on their own.
Carol’s story is a testament to the enduring power of family and love. Despite her immense pain and suffering, the support of her sons and the generosity of others have given her a renewed sense of hope. As she waits for the transplant date, Carol remains grateful for the opportunity to regain her health and spend more precious moments with her family.
Chief Vulithuba Sangoni, the founder of The Icon’s Journey Marathon Challenge, has confirmed a new partnership with various stakeholders in preparation for the fourth edition of the Icon’s Journey Marathon, scheduled from July 14 to 21. This year’s marathon promises to be an extraordinary event with several exciting components aimed at promoting social change and community involvement.
The 400 km Iconic Challenge
One of the standout events of this year’s marathon is the 400 km Iconic Challenge, which will take place along the World’s Longest Liberation Route. This gruelling challenge will feature 12 social runners, known as “Icons 4 Change,” representing eight provinces. These dedicated runners will cover a demanding distance of 400 km over eight days. The journey is divided into seven consecutive 42.2km marathons, culminating in a 103 km run on the eighth day. This route has been declared by the National Heritage Council as the Eastern Cape Resistance & Liberation Heritage Route.
“Starting will be at Fort Hare University in Alice, touching Fort Beaufort, Whittlesea, Komani, Cofimvaba, Ngcobo, Clarkebury, Baziya, Mqhekezweni, Qunu and Qokolweni, and finishing at Nelson Mandela Museum, Bhunga Building in Mthatha,” Sangoni told the Mthatha Express (NEWS24). For the first time since launching the initiative in 2021, they will have a representative from eight of the nine provinces, including Lukhanyo Ziphethe from the Northern Cape, Reggie Gebuza from the Eastern Cape, Masamuel Mayana from the Free State, Themba Mkhangeli from the Western Cape, Nkosi Vulithuba Sangoni from the Eastern Cape, Abigail Lombo from KwaZulu-Natal, Mongezi Plank from the Eastern Cape, Miyelani Magaza from Mpumalanga, Sithembiso Soyaya from the Eastern Cape, Nic Shelver from Gauteng, Enock Kgoete from Limpopo, and Tebogo Malebatsi from Gauteng.
Fundraising for a Cause
This year, the runners are challenging 4,000 South Africans to pledge R100 each on their crowdfunding campaign on the BackaBuddy platform. Their goal is to raise R400,000, which will benefit over 30,000 school children nationwide.
Gala Dinner Fundraiser
On July 12, the Nelson Mandela Museum and Absa will host a fundraising gala dinner at the Bhunga Building. This event aims to support the 400 km Iconic Challengers in reaching and exceeding their fundraising target. Chief Sangoni noted, “On July 12, Nelson Mandela Museum and Absa will host a fundraising gala dinner at Bhunga Building, in an effort to assist the 400 km Iconic Challengers to reach and exceed their target, a unique event in its own right that sees traditional leaders, political and private sector leaders, schools, and members of the media under one roof to welcome the 400 km participants.” Ten-seater tables will be sold for R5,000, with the proceeds going towards the 400 km iconic challenge bag.
Hiking Event
Returning for the fourth time is the popular hiking event, scheduled from July 19 to 21. This 35 km hike over two days will take participants from Hluleka Nature Reserve to Hole in the Wall in Coffee Bay.
Cycling Route Challenge
On July 20, participants will experience a reverse cycling route, taking daring cyclists on a journey across two Kingdoms, from Mpondoland to Thembuland. This 61 km road bike event will start at 07:00 from Ntlaza Caltex Garage, travel via R61, and finish at Port St. Johns Stadium.
Running Event
The running event will take place on July 21, rounding off the series of athletic challenges.
Entry Information
Entries for the marathon are still open online until midnight on Sunday, June 30. This date also marks the closing for those wishing to receive one of the 500 free Iconic t-shirts. After June 30, physical entries can be obtained from the Nelson Mandela Museum, Absa branches in Mthatha, King Sabatha Dalindyebo Local Municipality (KSD), and Port St. Johns (PSJ) Municipality, the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC), Savoy Hotel, and Buffalo Toyota.
The STEPS ‘Next Steps to RunFree2030 Webinar,’ held on World Clubfoot Day, Monday, 3 June 2024, was a powerful gathering that addressed the pressing economic and social factors contributing to untreated clubfoot. This congenital condition, medically known as congenital talipes equinovarus, twists one or both feet inward and downward, making them rigid and challenging to move into the correct position. While treatable, clubfoot remains a significant issue in regions like Southern and East Africa, where it affects approximately 1 in 500 children born each year.
The Reality of Clubfoot in Southern Africa
In Southern Africa, an estimated 11,000 children are born with clubfoot annually, with around 2,000 cases in South Africa alone. The economic burden posed by untreated clubfoot is substantial. Yulisha Naidoo, a Masters of Public Health candidate at the Health Economics Unit at the University of Cape Town, highlighted this during the webinar. She emphasised how untreated clubfoot imposes an avoidable financial strain on South Africa’s economy. According to research by UNICEF, more than half of children with disabilities never attend school, leading to missed employment opportunities and perpetuating a cycle of poverty.
“South African families with children with disabilities incur higher health costs, pushing them deeper into poverty and increasing reliance on government and social welfare grants. This ultimately increases the burden on the government and the taxpayer in the long run,” Naidoo told SA Lifestyle Magazine.
The Broader Implications
The marginalisation and stigmatisation faced by individuals with untreated clubfoot are deeply concerning. Professor Arnold Christianson, Head of the Division of Human Genetics at the University of the Witwatersrand, drew parallels between the marginalisation experienced by clubfoot sufferers and that faced by HIV/AIDS sufferers in the 80s and 90s. He noted that congenital conditions like clubfoot often do not receive healthcare priority in South Africa, impacting individuals’ right to human dignity.
Dr. Marilize Burger, an Associate Professor at Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, explained that while the exact cause of clubfoot remains unknown, environmental and genetic factors potentially play a role. She emphasised the critical importance of early intervention and treatment, highlighting risks such as prescription drug use, smoking during pregnancy, maternal exposures, and family history. Dr. Burger also noted the higher prevalence of clubfoot in low and middle-income countries and significant regional variations.
Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBgUKl0yJxQ
A Call to Action
Karen Moss, Founder and Executive Director of STEPS, a dedicated non-profit organisation supporting families affected by clubfoot in Southern Africa, highlighted the cost benefits of clubfoot treatment. “The STEPS Clubfoot Care programme works in partnership with health professionals and specialist clinics in the South African state health sector to bridge the gap in resources and improve successful outcomes. For one child with clubfoot, it costs STEPS just R2500 to support their treatment over four years. Successful treatment allows a child to walk properly, attend school, and positively contribute to society as they get older. Not being able to treat children with clubfoot is economically counterproductive, leading to greater long-term expenses from unemployment and long-term healthcare dependency, not to mention the mental health implications of not being able to fully participate in society. It is unfortunately a heartbreaking reality that many South African families, especially in rural areas, cannot afford regular clinic visits for this treatable condition.”
Webinar chair, Associate Professor Jacques du Toit from the University of Stellenbosch, emphasised the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders during these times of significant global austerity challenges. By working together, we can ensure continuous and improved treatment for this vulnerable group of patients, aiming to run free from disability by 2030.
Global Clubfoot Initiative, an umbrella body of clubfoot organisations, relaunched RunFree2030 on World Clubfoot Day which was on 3 June 2024. The initiative aims to provide essential treatment to children with clubfoot living in resource-restricted countries using the Ponseti method—a 95% effective, cost-effective, and non-invasive treatment involving a series of casts, gentle manipulation, and braces.
In 2023, STEPS supported 4,703 children, including 1,162 new patients enrolled, across 40 partner clinics in South Africa. Despite these efforts, this only addresses half of the estimated 2,295 new cases annually, highlighting the need for more critical support. The organisation is calling on South Africa’s private sector to help raise R1 000 000 to supply essential clubfoot braces to even more children, with braces costing between R3,000 and R8,000 each.
How You Can Help
To sustain its efforts, STEPS invites everyone to join their “Stepping Up” initiative through BackaBuddy, aiming to recruit sustaining donors to provide regular support. “By using the successful individual giving Campaign model, where each person recruits five monthly donors, and those donors do the same, we can mitigate and prevent severe lifelong disability quickly and more effectively,” concluded Moss.
The Marine Mongrels are set to embark on an exciting journey to Australia, representing South Africa in the World Lifesaving Championships. This incredible team, hailing from the esteemed Marine Lifesaving Club in Durban, is led by the world-class sweep Gary Brummer. They have trained tirelessly, demonstrating unparalleled dedication and spirit, and now, with Jenn Seady’s passionate support, they hope to rally the nation behind them.
A Pillar of Strength and Inspiration for Surfboat Rowing in South Africa
Jenn Seady, a devoted advocate for surfboat rowing, has recently reached out to share her joy and to rally South Africa to support the Marine Mongrels. Jenn’s connection to the sport runs deep; it has been her lifeline through two bouts of cancer. Currently undergoing treatment, Jenn finds solace and inspiration in the team’s journey, receiving regular updates that lift her spirits on the darkest days.
In her heartfelt message to Good Things Guy, Jenn shares the exhilarating nature of surfboat rowing. “There’s a sport called surfboat rowing, which is part of Lifesaving. Apart from being super fit, you also have to be a little nutty to partake in this rather eventful, occasionally dangerous rowing sport. Four team members row a boat through the waves out to sea, turn around, and race back, hopefully catching waves in the process,” she explains. “The sweep steers the boat from the back, and the team sits with their backs towards the waves. Timing, skill, and a whole lot of trust in your team are required. It is the ultimate team sport where you take on the ocean and is one of the greatest tests of endurance.”
For the past four years, surfboat rowing has been Jenn’s passion and driving force. She describes how, after competing in the 2022 Lifesaving Nationals, she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite undergoing treatment, Jenn continued to row, even competing in the 2023 Nationals and securing second place with her team. Her determination and love for the sport kept her going through the toughest times.
In June 2024, Jenn’s dream comes closer to reality as the Marine Mongrels, an all-female team, prepare to compete in the World Champs of Lifesaving on the Gold Coast. This marks a historic moment for South African surfboat rowing, as it is the first time a ladies’ team will represent the country in Australia.
The Marine Mongrels’ journey has not been easy. They have faced early morning training sessions, full workdays, and numerous challenges along the way. Despite their dedication, they still need support to cover accommodation costs, nutrition, and vehicle hire. Jenn, who has been living her dream vicariously through one of the team members, shares how their updates and videos have lifted her spirits and inspired her during her treatment.
“This team needs South Africa’s support,” Jenn urges. “They exude every possible quality of great sportsmanship. Their kindness knows no bounds. Their focus, trust, love, and dedication towards their team and sport are admirable. Let’s make the Marine Mongrels great!”
Jenn’s call to action is a testament to the incredible bond within the lifesaving community. The Marine Mongrels have not only demonstrated their athletic prowess but also their compassion and sportsmanship by supporting Jenn through her journey.
To support the Marine Mongrels and help them achieve their dream, Jenn encourages everyone to contribute to their BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign where they have already raised over R11 000 of their R300 000 goal with the help of 18 amazing donors. Your donations will ensure that this remarkable team can represent South Africa with pride on the world stage.
Jace Hilse, known as Super Jace to his loved ones, is a 4-year-old remarkable young boy from Krugersdorp, Gauteng, whose imagination knows no bounds. From the moment he was born on 19 March 2020, his family affectionately called him their little superhero. Jace’s favourite activities include playing the role of a superhero or a first responder, always eager to save the day with his boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm. Now Jace is facing a challenge no child should ever have to endure, proving once again that not all superheros wear capes.
Pictured above: 4-year-old Jace Hilse also known as Super Jace
‘Jace was born via a natural water birth, and he literally came out with his one arm in the air like Superman and that is why we call him our superhero since birth. He has a big personality. He can be quite shy on some days. Most days he lives in his own little fantasy world where he is either a superhero, firefighter, policeman, and more recently a doctor.’ says Chante, Jace’s mum
The Easter Weekend in March 2024 brought heart-wrenching news for Jace and his family. He was diagnosed with B-cell Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL), a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Further complicating his diagnosis, Jace was found to be among the mere 3% of children worldwide who have the genetic leukaemia marker known as the Philadelphia Chromosome. This revelation added another layer to the already daunting battle ahead.
‘As his parents we felt like our entire world shattered on the day of his diagnosis and was extremely heartbroken. He is our entire world and all we want is for him to be healthy again.’ says Jace’s dad, Jean-Pierre
Pictured above: Jace with his parents, Chante and Jean-Pierre, and his grandparents, Lu-marie and Thinus on Christmas Day 2024
Jace’s initial bone marrow biopsy revealed a staggering 93% cancer cell presence. Yet, in true superhero fashion, he has shown incredible resilience. With each subsequent biopsy, his cancer cells have significantly decreased, and two months into his treatment, his bone marrow now shows only 0.2% cancer cells. This dramatic improvement is a testament to Jace’s inner strength and the dedicated medical care he is receiving.
‘Jace has received two cycles of chemotherapy since his diagnosis at the beginning of April 2024. His little body is very sensitive to the chemotherapy and his blood cell counts drop extremely fast due to this and then he has to have breaks from his treatment. He misses out on so much of the normal stuff that kids his age get to do, like playing and seeing his friends or going to go see family. Since his diagnosis his life now consists of home, hospital or the doctor’s room.’ Chante tells us
Pictured above: Jace with sister Monica from the hospital
However, the journey is far from over. Jace’s young body is particularly sensitive to the harsh treatments required to combat his leukaemia. After extensive consultations with global experts, his medical team has determined that immunotherapy is the best course of action. This innovative treatment offers the most promise with the least side effects, crucial for preserving Jace’s overall health and vitality. Unfortunately, the financial burden of immunotherapy is significant, even with medical insurance. The out-of-pocket expenses are substantial, and Jace requires two cycles of this therapy to have the best chance of recovery.
‘Jace is currently doing well, he is on a small break after his second cycle. He is playing at home and keeping all of us on our toes. His last tests came back to show that his cancer cells have dropped to 0.14%.’ Jean-Pierre tells us
To help alleviate the financial burden that they are facing, Jace’s family has started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised over R90 000 with the help of 59 incredible donors.
‘The money raised will help us to cover any of the excess costs for the immunotherapy that the medical aid won’t be able to cover.’ Chante explains
Pictured above: Jace riding his bike in the hospital play area
Jace’s family is unwavering in their mission to provide him with everything he needs to overcome this illness and reclaim his childhood. They dream of seeing him healthy and happy, back in school, and playing with his friends. The family’s goal is to ensure that Jace, their little superhero, can live out his dreams without the shadow of illness.
‘We would just like to say a huge thank you to all the donors for helping us in providing Jace with the best possible treatment. We can’t express our gratitude enough.’says Jean-Pierre and Chante
While there is no dedicated social media page for Jace, his family will be posting updates on the campaign to keep supporters informed of his progress. They invite everyone to join them in supporting Jace’s fight against leukaemia, demonstrating that not all heroes wear capes—some have ports.
Pictured above: Carol and her son Cyril who will also be her donor
Pictured above: Carol and her daughter Samantha Shrives
