When faced with a challenging medical diagnosis families often aren’t prepared for the financial burden placed on them at the most vulnerable time in their lives.
For this reason, many South Africans are turning to crowdfunding to raise the funds for a loved one in need of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and the purchase of medication and medical equipment.
Crowdfunding is the practice of fundraising online by setting up a project to receive many small donations from a number of individuals through the use of social media and the press.
Through emotive storytelling, images and video content, campaign creators are able to present their cause to the public to help reach their specified fundraising target.
As long as you have an earnest medical need that can be validated by a doctor or health practitioner, you can raise funds on BackaBuddy.
What can you raise funds for?
Over 49800 individuals have successfully crowdfunded on BackaBuddy to cover the cost of their Cancer Treatment, Cystic Fibrosis treatment, Bone Marrow Transplants, Kidney Dialysis, Heart surgery, Liver transplant, Cochlear implants and Wheelchairs.
Friends seeking to support a family in distress often launch crowdfunding campaigns to assist with expenses such as living costs, transportation, and other necessities during a catastrophic medical diagnosis.
Getting started
Get started with your crowdfunding campaign by sending us your story, funding needs and references by completing this form.
If you aren’t sure how to go about your campaign, please contact us and our team will guide you and walk alongside you.
Once your campaign is set up, you will have a shareable link that you can share on your social media, the press and most importantly, with family and friends, who can help you spread the word and donate to your cause.
Medical campaigns that captured our hearts
Since 2015 BackaBuddy has raised over R550 Million to support worthy causes in South Africa.
Take a look at a few of the medical campaigns on BackaBuddy that touched the hearts of donors both locally and abroad.
A Bone Marrow Transplant for Aaron
Aaron Lipschitz (7) from Sea Point, Cape Town, is the first child in South Africa to be diagnosed with Interleukin-12 Receptor Defect, a rare genetic condition that affects the immune system.
The only way for Aaron to overcome his recurrent infections and survive this condition was to have a bone marrow transplant, which successfully took place in August 2018.
When 9-year-old Amogelang Kgobe Matloga from Limpopo was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in August 2024, his mother, Annah, turned to BackaBuddy with hope and faith.
After bravely facing treatment, Amogelang’s cancer relapsed in May 2025, leaving his family devastated but determined to fight for his life. Annah has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for a life-saving bone marrow transplant, giving her son the chance to dream, play, and live fully again.
At just 19 years old, Anastacia from Meyerton was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, beginning a long and painful fight against the disease.
After reaching remission twice, most recently at the end of 2024, doctors warned her that a third relapse would likely be fatal. With a donor already secured, Anastacia now urgently needs a bone marrow transplant at a private hospital in Pretoria. While DKMS has generously offered to cover half the costs, she still needs support to raise the remaining funds for the life-saving procedure.
When beloved Cape Town teacher and single mother, Ms Mrasi, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, the moms of her class rallied together to support her.
Known for her warmth, humour, and the motherly care she shows her students, Ms Mrasi now faces the toughest fight of her life while continuing to support her son with special needs, who is currently writing matric. To ease the burden of treatment costs and daily expenses, her community is raising funds by running the 21km Gun Run and walking 5kms in her honour — a powerful show of love and solidarity.
When long-time motocross enthusiast and devoted husband, Kelby Parker, was rushed into ICU for an emergency life-saving operation after undetected sepsis spread through his body, his family’s world was turned upside down.
Now recovering with a colostomy bag after major bowel surgery, Kelby remains in intensive care at Wilgeheuwel Hospital, where mounting medical bills far exceed what their insurance could cover in just one day. His wife of 29 years and their daughter, recently engaged, are appealing for support so Kelby can heal, recover, and fulfil his dream of walking his daughter down the aisle.
When 6-year-old Carley was suddenly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and rushed to ICU, her family’s life changed overnight, as she bravely adapted to daily insulin injections, sugar checks, and food restrictions — all while keeping her sparkle.
Alongside Carley’s journey, her older brother lives with autism, and together they face unique daily challenges. Their parents are now raising funds for an Aquazone Ozone H₂O Machine, a supportive therapy that could ease Carley’s diabetic struggles and help her brother with sensory and neurological balance, giving both children more strength, comfort, and moments to simply be kids.
Pictured above: Elijah Cottle at a surprise visit at Waterfront Helicopter Tours. Elijah loves Cars, Planes, Trains, Helicopters, Boats, and basically all modes of transportation.
Elijah Cottle, a 3-year-old boy from Hout Bay, Cape Town, South Africa, was diagnosed with Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM), a rare and serious polio-like condition that left him paralyzed from the waist down.
Despite the devastating news, Elijah remained positive and cheerful as he fought for his life in the ICU at Christiaan Barnard Hospital in Cape Town. After several months of intense treatment and recovery, Elijah was finally discharged from the hospital in September 2022. His family was overjoyed to have him home, but they knew that the road to recovery would be long and costly.
Pictured above: Elijah Cottle at Christiaan Barnard Hospital in Cape Town on 19th August 2022, after his Tracheostomy operation
Elijah dreams of walking again
Currently, Elijah’s rehabilitation schedule is intense, with 4-day sessions every week consisting of physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and hydrotherapy. He also has a caregiver to assist with his needs and transportation to and from therapies. Despite the challenges, Elijah remains determined to recover and regain his mobility.
“Elijah has shown his resilience, strength and bravery throughout this experience. Our gift from God, who loved to run, jump and once believed he could do anything, has been stripped of this and will now learn to adjust to his new quality of life from a wheelchair. We are all learning about the boundless courage it takes to fuel his path to recovery. “ – says Courtney.
Pictured above: Elijah Cottle lives with his family in Hout Bay.
With Elijah’s condition showing little improvement, his family began researching other options overseas. They learned of a procedure called a Nerve Transfer Surgery that has been performed successfully on a boy with similar symptoms in the United States and could be Elijah’s best chance at walking again.
However, the family faces significant financial obstacles to get Elijah to the United States for a procedure that their medical aid will not cover. They have launched a crowdfunding campaign with a goal of raising R500,000.
Pictured above: Isaiah Cottle (Elijah’s Brother), Courtney Matthei (Elijah’s Mom). Dino Cottle (Elijah’s Dad) and Elijah Cottle
The outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming. Friends, family, and even strangers have donated to the campaign, raising over R260 000 for Elijah’s much-needed treatment.
The Cottle family remain hopeful and grateful for the support they have received thus far. The family is asking for continued support and donations to help Elijah on his journey to recovery and raise awareness about AFM. Despite the challenges they are facing, they remain determined to give Elijah the best chance to walk again.
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 R380 Million.
Faahkir Bestman (19) was always destined for greatness. From the moment he first stepped onto a dance floor, it was clear to all who saw him that he had something special.
Dubbed Hanover Park’s Billy Elliot, the young Capetonian caught the eye of Abeedah Medell of the famed Eoan Group when he was just eight years old.
Believing in his talents, Abeedah gave Faahkir the formative training he needed and encouraged him to dream beyond his reality.
With each step, Faahkir grew stronger and more determined to dance on the big stages of the world.
At just twelve years old, he won the inaugural Christopher Kindo scholarship, allowing him to attend the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg. In Grade 9, Intocast SA selected him for their bursary programme which covered all his expenses through high school.
Before his final matric exams, Faahkir was awarded the opportunity of a lifetime: a scholarship to attend the prestigious Joffrey Ballet School in New York. But he needs help to ensure that he can sustain himself when he is there and be ready for all eventualities.
The Johannesburg Youth Ballet (JYB) has taken up the cause and is driving and managing a fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy, to ensure that Faahkir has everything he needs for his time at the Joffrey Ballet.
Pictured above: FAAHKIR BESTMAN in the NSA’s DANCE SPECTRUM (Photo Credit : Lauge Sorensen)
Since the launch of the campaign, more than R90 000 has been raised with kind contributions from 81 donors, towards his fundraising target of R150 000, which will comfortably secure Faahkir’s needs for the year.
Funds raised will cover Faahkir’svisa and passport costs, his return flights to New York, his medical insurance, clothing and dance gear, bedding and cooking utensils for his residence, as well as a small amount of pocket money for his stay.
Pictured above: Faahkir Bestman
Faahkir has dedicated his entire life to his craft and has worked hard to achieve success he has. With help from the public, Faahkir will be able to take the next step in his journey, and dance on the world’s stage.
“There are many talented young dancers who want to make a career out of dance, but it is perhaps once or twice in a lifetime that someone with Faahkir’s talent, commitment, passion, and focus to achieve despite adversity crosses your path. I feel honoured and privileged to have worked with Faahkir on his dance journey. I have seen his growth as an artist in all genres of dance. He is eager to learn, takes and applies corrections, and is passionate about everything he does. He is a bright and humble young man, with incredible stage presence, that I know is destined for greatness.” – says Mark Hawkins (Artistic Director of the Johannesburg Youth Ballet)
All additional funds raised by the campaignwill be used to establish “The Bestman Bursary” to assist other young dancers waiting in the wings to dance their dream!
The Youth Ballet is a registered NPC with public benefit status, meaning that all donations will receive a Section 18 A certificate for tax purposes.
Together, we can fly Faahkir to the Joffrey Ballet in New York, where he will have the chance to reach his full potential and achieve his dreams. Let’s make it happen for this talented and soulful young man!
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 R380 Million.
When people come together, amazing things can happen.
Take a look at a few campaigns that have been highlighted on the Backabuddy Impact Village as well as in media publications across South Africa this week.
Featured Campaigns
Read our latest blog posts featured on the BackaBuddy impact village this week.
In memory of her beloved mother who passed away in November, Briony Chisholm is undertaking a unique initiative to cope with grief. To celebrate what would have been her mother’s 80th birthday on February 11, 2024, Briony has committed to “arm-running” 80 km, utilizing discovered arm movements as steps, despite being quadriplegic since a car accident in 1996.
This initiative seeks to raise funds for the UWC Fairy Godmother, supporting students at UWC facing financial challenges. The initiative resonates with her mother’s belief in the transformative power of education. Donations contribute directly to the UWC Fairy Godmother, aiding determined South African students pursuing education under difficult circumstances. Updates on the progress, measured in steps and kilometers, will be shared to engage supporters.
Quintus Serton, a beloved father, is fighting for his life after a brutal attack on December 9th. Currently in Milpark Hospital’s trauma unit, he faces extensive injuries and mounting medical bills exceeding R450,000 due to a lack of medical cover. Despite slow but steady progress, Quintus needs further procedures and therapy for his long road to recovery. Financial support is urgently needed, and every donation will directly contribute to covering his ongoing treatment expenses. A call for generosity and kindness has been made to aid Quintus in his recovery. Your support can make a significant difference in this difficult time.
Surfing legend Ian Armstrong, a former World Big Wave Champ and influential figure in the surfing community, recently lost his shaping room and livelihood in a devastating wildfire in Cape Town. The fire destroyed his tools, shaped boards, and the structure itself. Shaping is not only Ian’s passion but also his family’s main income source. A fundraising initiative has been launched on BackaBuddy to raise approximately R150 000 to help Ian rebuild his shaping room. Contributions from the community will support him in getting back to shaping boards. Ian’s work on his website at https://armstrongsurfboards.co.za/. Your support is greatly appreciated.
After suffering severe injury to his neck while playing in a rugby tournament in September last year, which initially left him paralysed, four months later an avid rugby player, Anzil Williams (16) from Humansdorp, is looking forward to continuing positive results in his recovery, and celebrating all the excitement of being in matric.
Do you need to raise funds for a personal need such as medical, education, or for a cause or charity?If so, you’re in the right place. 30 000+ people just like you have successfully raised funds on BackaBuddy.
300 000+ donors have supported over 30 000+ heroes like you through their medical treatment, and education or have rewarded a gesture of kindness by paying it forward on BackaBuddy.
We thank our generous donors and hardworking campaign creators everyday for making the world a better place. We are the shoulders on which heroes stand.
Siyabonga Lusaseni (11) is a bright and lively Grade 6 student at Pinelands North Primary School in Pinelands, Cape Town, who comes from a loving family in the Khayelitsha community.
In his 5 years at Pinelands North Primary School, Siya has touched many hearts with his positive deposition and excellent work ethic, including his former teacher, Megan Culligan (30).
“I have had the privilege of seeing Siya grow and thrive in this environment. He is a beautiful little boy with a heart of gold. He loves school and learning, and has built many wonderful relationships with his teachers and peers over the years. He is full of energy, love and enjoys sports and being active.” – says Megan
Despite his passion for education, Siya and his family are facing financial difficulties that threaten to hinder his continued studies at PNPS.
Offering her support, Megan has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, appealing to the public to help Siya, so that he may continue to flourish.
Megan firmly believes that with a solid education, anything is possible and many doors can be opened for Siya.
Since the launch of the campaign, over R37 000 has been raised towards Siya’s fundraising target of R56 000, which will help cover Siya’s school fees, aftercare, tutoring, and the purchase of a tablet, which is required for grade 6 and onward.
Any donation will go a long way toward securing Siya’s future growth.
With Megan and the PNPS community behind Siya, the hope is that he will begin Grade 6 with confidence and have the opportunity to follow his dreams into the future.
Support Siya’s education by making a donation on BackaBuddy:
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 R380 Million.
