Lize Marais, from the Helderberg region of the Western Cape, embodies determination and compassion as she strives to keep the doors of Milkwood Learning Academy and their beloved Toy Library open. This academy is a haven for children with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, autism, and Down syndrome.
With a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, Marais is rallying the community to secure the future of 18 students by the end of March 2024, facing an urgent financial crisis that threatens the academy’s existence.
A Sanctuary for Learning and Growth
Milkwood Learning Academy, nestled in the heart of the Helderberg region, is more than an educational institution; it’s a place where vulnerable children discover their potential in a nurturing and accepting environment. Founded by Marais seven years ago, the academy has become a critical resource for affordable, quality education tailored to children with intellectual disabilities. “It’s a place where they don’t feel rejected, they feel safe and loved,”Marais explains. Her commitment to these children is unwavering, driven by a vision of inclusivity and empowerment.
Marais shares poignant insights into the impact of Milkwood on its students: “Over the years I have seen so many success stories. Children come to us with very high anxiety levels. Some were rejected by society, others were enrolled in mainstream schools, and were subject to bullying from other children. Many of my children can’t speak a word or read a word when they join Milkwood. Later they learn to talk, play with others, and even read books.”
Pictured above: Lize Marais with Milkwood Learning Academy students
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Despite the positive impact on its students, Milkwood’s financial sustainability is at risk. The school’s inclusive fee structure, designed to accommodate families of all economic backgrounds, has led to financial shortfalls. “Our goal is to enable children with special needs to live meaningful lives within their communities,” Marais says, emphasizing the need for support to keep this haven for learning alive.
Pictured above: Lize Marais with Milkwood Learning Academy students
Since the launch of the BackaBuddy campaign, 13 donors have come together to raise R15,581 towards Milkwood’s fundraising target of R60 000 to address their immediate financial needs, including rent and daily operational costs
“As the deadline approaches, the story of Milkwood Learning Academy and its fight for survival serves as a testament to the impact of community support and the difference it can make in the lives of children with special needs, who are the most vulnerable among us.” – says Bernelie Barwise ( Social Media Manager at BackaBuddy.)
To support Lize Marais and the Milkwood Learning Academy, visit their BackaBuddy campaign link:
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.
Sané Wilken (18), a passionate cattle farm worker from Boshoff, Free State, experienced a traumatic event on January 25, 2024, which profoundly altered her life’s trajectory. While engaged in a routine task, pouring fertiliser into a motorised water tank, Sané’s thumb unexpectedly got caught and twisted in the bag she was using, leading to a catastrophic sequence of events.
Pictured above: Sané Wilken
Despite the immediate danger and her attempts to free herself, the machinery relentlessly twisted the bag around her thumb, eventually breaking her wrist, and ultimately resulting in the complete severance of her forearm.
While Sané says her life has been forever changed due to the traumatic incident, she is determined not to let her define her future. Showing remarkable strength of character, Sané told her mother, Corila, in the emergency room, “It’s only an arm. I’m still alive to speak to you, and this will not get me down.”
Pictured above: Sané with her mother, Corila
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Since losing her arm, Sané is diligently working to adapt to her new circumstances. Her greatest challenges now stem from everyday tasks that she once performed effortlessly. Simple activities such as tying her hair in the morning, getting dressed, eating, and playing with her cherished dogs have become notably more difficult.
While doctors estimate that it could take 6 to 12 months for Sané’s arm to heal, her mother has initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to purchase a state-of-the-art bionic arm for her. This advanced prosthetic, equipped with sensors that interpret muscle and brain signals, is intended to help Sané regain the confidence and independence she has lost.
Pictured above: Sané Wilken
Since the campaign’s launch, more than R80,000 has been donated towards her fundraising goal of R400,000, with contributions from 50 donors.
Having recently completed her agricultural education, Sané, who has dreamed of becoming the best farmer she could be since she was a little girl, is counting the days until she can return to the work that feeds her spirit, lovingly tending to the crops and cattle.
Reflecting on the accident, Sané says, “It was a freak accident. There was nothing anyone could’ve done differently. It’s no one’s fault. I’m not ashamed of my ‘stompie’ and will show anyone who wants to see my arm and tell my story.”
Thanking her donors, Sané says, “They have given me a second chance. I can’t say thank you enough for the kindness I have received. I’m taking life day by day now, but I know that one day soon, I will be able to live as I did before the accident.”
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.
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