Ready to launch your campaign on BackaBuddy? This guide covers everything you need to know to set up, write a compelling story, and activate your Donate button. Learn how to make your campaign stand out and reach your funding goals effectively.
Steps to Start Your Campaign:
Log into your BackaBuddy profile and click on “Start Campaign.”
Enter essential details like your campaign name, target amount, and images.
Write an engaging story to inspire potential donors.
Preview your campaign and click “Launch.”
Make sure your campaign title is simple and powerful—it’s the first thing potential donors will see. A clear, compelling title can increase the chances of donations!
Starting a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy begins with creating your profile! This guide walks you through setting up your BackaBuddy account so you can begin your fundraising journey. Once your profile is registered and verified, you’re all set to launch your first campaign and join our supportive community.
Confirm your profile by clicking the verification link sent to your email.
For a smoother experience, double-check your email address and ensure you click the verification link promptly to avoid delays in setting up your account.
Watch Our Step-by-Step Guide on YouTube
Contact Us
For any questions, reach out to your campaign manager for personalised assistance, alternatively contact us, HERE.
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Warren Meyer (43), a devoted father and Senior Sales and Marketing Manager from Fourways, Gauteng, has left behind a legacy of generosity and love that continues to impact lives. On July 20, 2024, Warren suffered a cardiac arrest, after fighting in the ICU for 5 days, he sadly lost his life, but his selfless act of organ donation saved 9 lives, making him a true hero in life and beyond. His wife, Suzette (41), now shares his story to honour his life and raise awareness about the profound impact of organ donation while hoping to secure a future for their three daughters: Mila (12), Emily (10), and Olivia (5).
A Devoted Father and a Heroic Act
Warren was not only known for his hard work as a Senior Sales and Marketing Manager for a property development company but also for his immense love for his family. His wife, Suzette, shared, “Warren was a fantastic dad—very hands-on and a devoted husband. His family was his life.” Each of their daughters held a special place in Warren’s heart. “Our eldest excelled in drama and running, our middle daughter plays in the boys’ A soccer team, and our youngest was the apple of his eye. We were incredibly blessed to have a father and husband like Warren,” Suzette recalled fondly.
Warren’s generosity extended beyond his home, with his decision to become an organ donor rooted in his desire to give. “Warren was very generous; he would give his last R100 to someone in need and then go without.” Suzette shared. Despite the unimaginable grief of losing her husband, she is deeply moved by Warren’s final act of kindness. “Our loss was the answer to so many prayers; that is not something you get to give every day,” she reflected.
Picture above: Warren and Suzette Meyer
A Walk of Honour: Saying Goodbye to a Hero
When Warren sadly passed, the family faced a devastating reality. Suzette and their daughters spent a heart-breaking week watching Warren fight, only to have to let him go. On the day of his organ donation, staff at Life Hospital organised a solemn “walk of honour” to celebrate Warren’s bravery and compassion. Friends, family, hospital staff, and strangers lined the corridors, singing hymns as Warren made his final journey to the operating room.
“It was the most heart-breaking yet utterly beautiful thing I have ever experienced,” Suzette said. “The nurses were humming a hymn, and there were so many people lining the halls—doctors, nurses, friends, family, colleagues, strangers—all there to pay their last respects to a hero I could call my husband.”
Suzette expressed her appreciation for the hospital staff and the Organ Donor Foundation for their compassion and respect during such a difficult time. For Suzette and her daughters, this display of unity and respect helped bring a sense of peace amid their sorrow. “They treated Warren with the utmost respect right up until after the ‘harvest surgery,’ when they led me through to see him one last time and kiss him goodbye,” she shared, emphasising the compassionate care and support they received.
Honouring Warren’s Legacy and Supporting His Daughters
In the wake of this loss, Suzette has launched a crowdfunding campaign to secure a stable future for their three daughters, who are now without their father’s support. “Going from being ‘okay’ to being a single-income family is frightening and stressful,” she explained. Despite these challenges, Suzette wants to ensure her daughters have everything they need to heal and thrive.
The campaign has raised over R185,000 from 222 generous donors, with a goal of R250,000 to cover immediate and future expenses.
“What you have done by donating is give me and my girls one more day, week, and month, allowing us to heal our hearts instead of panicking about what we will do next month. Our life insurance did not pay out, so going from being “ok” to being a single income-earning family is frightening and stressful. Warren left behind three extraordinary and talented little girls. I want to make sure they have everything they need so that life does not burden them; they have already lost one of the most important people in their lives, and they do not need more stress at this young age”, Suzette expressed gratefully.
Picture above: Warren and his daughters, Mila, Emily, and Olivia.
She remains deeply moved by the support her family has received, adding, “I am eternally grateful to all the donors for their kindness. May you be blessed because you blessed someone else in their time of need.” The Meyer family’s story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact one person’s decision can have on the lives of many.
To support the Meyer family, visit their campaign here:
To register as an organ donor, visit the Organ Donation Foundation of South Africa atwww.odf.org.za or your local health department. By becoming an organ donor, you can help ensure that your legacy lives on through the lives you touch.
“How can you be unsure about saving lives? Seven to nine lives can be saved, and you can make a difference to up to 21 lives. You take nothing with you when you pass on; instead, you leave the gift behind for someone else to live,” says Suzette, offering these heartfelt words for those unsure about organ donation.
In South Africa, many people face significant challenges accessing healthcare due to the high costs of medical aid. Thankfully, there are several resources and support options available to help those in need. Below, we outline ways to receive medical assistance without medical aid, including crowdfunding, NGOs, apps, social media groups, and more.
Crowdfunding for Medical Expenses
Crowdfunding can be a lifeline when facing high medical costs. ThroughBackaBuddy, you can share your story and connect with a community that cares, enabling you to raise funds for crucial medical treatments, ongoing care, and emergency procedures. Whether you’re dealing with a long-term condition, sudden illness, or need help with post-operative expenses, crowdfunding can be a powerful way to seek financial support and reach those willing to help.
Public healthcare facilities in South Africa offer essential medical services, from chronic medication and emergency care to maternity and preventative services.
Here’s a list of key public hospitals in each province to contact if you need affordable medical care:
Gauteng: Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital – Contact: (011) 933 8000
Western Cape: Groote Schuur Hospital – Contact: (021) 404 9111
KwaZulu-Natal: Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital – Contact: (031) 240 1000
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Charities
NGOs and charities can offer crucial support if you’re struggling to access healthcare services:
Doctors Without Borders (MSF): Provides medical care to communities in crisis, regardless of financial constraints. VisitDoctors Without Borders for more information.
Gift of the Givers: Known for stepping in where help is most needed, Gift of the Givers offers assistance with medical care and supplies. Learn more atGift of the Givers.
Free and Low-Cost Medication
If you need chronic medication or support with regular health needs, there are pharmacies and organisations dedicated to helping:
Dis-Chem Clinic Services: Hosts free health screenings and immunisation drives at various times of the year. Learn more atDis-Chem Clinic Services.
Public Clinics: Many government-run clinics offer chronic medication dispensing and health services at no cost to those who qualify.
Apps for Medical Assistance
Accessing affordable healthcare can be as simple as downloading the right app:
Alfajiri Health: Connects you to mental health professionals and wellness services. VisitAlfajiri Health.
Vula Mobile: Designed for healthcare workers to make referrals, especially useful for rural patients needing specialist care. VisitVula Mobile.
Social Media Groups and Support Communities
Online communities can be a great source of practical advice, emotional support, and information on accessing affordable healthcare:
Medical Advice South Africa (Facebook Group): A community where members share experiences and advice about healthcare. Join the group onFacebook.
CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa): Offers information and emotional support for those affected by cancer. Connect with them onFacebook orInstagram.
SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): A dedicated mental health support group with resources and guidance. Follow them onFacebook or visitSADAG.
Influencers Advocating for Healthcare Access
Some influencers actively share healthcare information and promote accessible care:
Dr. Nokukhanya Khanyile (@dr.khanyile on Instagram): A medical doctor providing healthcare advice and mental health insights.
Zola Hashatsi (@zola_hashatsi on Instagram): An advocate for mental health awareness and affordable mental healthcare options.
Media Outlets Highlighting Healthcare Access
A few media outlets are committed to covering healthcare issues and sharing resources:
Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism: Reports on public health challenges and solutions. VisitBhekisisa.
Health-E News: Focuses on stories related to healthcare access and public health. VisitHealth-E.
Telemedicine Services
Telemedicine is a growing way to consult with healthcare professionals at an affordable cost:
Kena Health: Provides low-cost virtual consultations. Your first consultation is free. Learn more atKena Health.
MediClubSA: Offers consultations via WhatsApp or phone calls at an affordable price. VisitMediClubSA.
Mobile Health Clinics
Mobile health clinics serve communities with limited healthcare access, often free of charge:
Phelophepa Health Train: Known as the ‘train of hope,’ this service offers comprehensive healthcare to rural communities. Learn more atPhelophepa Health Train.
PinkDrive: A mobile unit providing free breast cancer screening services. VisitPinkDrive.
University Clinics and Teaching Hospitals
University clinics and teaching hospitals often offer affordable care under the supervision of professionals:
University of Pretoria Teaching Hospital: Provides medical, dental, and psychological services at reduced rates. Visit their website.
Sometimes legal or financial support can ease the burden of medical bills:
Legal Aid South Africa: Offers free legal representation, including healthcare-related cases. VisitLegal Aid SA.
If you’re navigating health challenges, remember there’s help available. From raising funds with BackaBuddy to seeking care from public health facilities, there are many routes to receive the medical assistance you need. Let’s continue to support each other and spread the word about these valuable resources.
Homelessness in South Africa is a growing concern, impacting individuals and families across all provinces. At BackaBuddy, we understand the importance of providing resources and support to those in need. This guide offers insights on supporting loved ones who may be experiencing homelessness, how to communicate compassionately, and a comprehensive list of shelters across South Africa.
Understanding Stigmas and Causes of Homelessness
Addressing homelessness requires empathy and awareness of the many factors contributing to it. Unfortunately, some stigmas persist that can prevent effective support and understanding. Here’s what you need to know:
Common Causes
Economic Hardships: Job loss, low wages, or insufficient affordable housing are significant contributors.
Health Issues: Both physical and mental health challenges can affect a person’s ability to maintain employment or stable housing.
Family Disruption: Domestic violence, family conflict, or loss of a family member can lead individuals to homelessness.
Lack of Support Services: Without access to mental health care, job training, or rehabilitation services, many struggle to regain stability.
Common Stigmas
Laziness or Lack of Motivation: Many believe those experiencing homelessness are unwilling to work, overlooking systemic challenges they face.
Substance Abuse: Although addiction may contribute to homelessness for some, many affected individuals struggle with complex mental health and economic issues.
Criminal History: A past conviction can limit access to stable employment or housing, pushing some into homelessness.
How to Support a Loved One Experiencing Homelessness
Supporting someone facing homelessness can be challenging, but small, meaningful actions can make a big difference. What can you do?
Listen with Empathy Approach conversations with openness and empathy. Just being present can help them feel valued and less isolated.
Offer Practical Assistance
Provide essential items like a meal, warm clothing, hygiene products, or transport fare to meet immediate needs.
Support them through fundraising on platforms likeBackaBuddy, where crowdfunding campaigns can help secure essentials, temporary housing, or job training resources.
Encourage Steps Forward Offer hope by encouraging small, manageable steps toward stability, such as exploring job training or reaching out to shelters for transitional housing.
Communicating with Respect and Compassion
When speaking to someone who is experiencing homelessness, an empathetic, respectful approach can make all the difference. Here’s how:
Be Respectful: Address them as an equal, using their name if known.
Listen Actively: Let them share without interrupting or judging.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Invite them to share what kind of support would be most helpful.
Offer Help, Not Solutions: Ask how you can assist instead of assuming what they need.
Respect Boundaries: Recognize their need for privacy and personal space.
Show Compassion: Sometimes just knowing someone cares can make a difference.
Legal Rights of Homeless Individuals
In South Africa, there are rights in place to protect and support those experiencing homelessness. Being aware of these can provide some relief:
Access to Shelter: Municipalities are encouraged to provide emergency shelter to those in need.
Right to Dignity and Privacy: The South African Constitution safeguards dignity and privacy for everyone, regardless of their living situation.
Access to Health and Social Services: Free healthcare and emergency housing assistance are available for those in crisis.
Immediate Resources for Those in Crisis
In times of crisis, knowing where to turn for help can be life-changing. If someone is experiencing homelessness or a crisis, here’s where they can get help:
Emergency Contacts
Police / Ambulance: 10111
National Gender-Based Violence Hotline: 0800 428 428
Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322 (counseling services)
Mental Health Support
Lifeline SA: 0861 322 322 for crisis counseling.
SADAG: Free support groups and mental health resources: 0800 567 567.
