James Dunford (19) from Hillcrest, Kwa-Zulu Natal, is a courageous and resilient young man who has found himself thrust into a battle against osteosarcoma, a ruthless cancer that occurs in the bones. Yet, amid the darkness of his diagnosis, James’s spirit shines brightly, illuminating a path of hope and strength for all who know him.
Pictured above: 19-year-old James Dunford
“James is an incredibly determined young man, with an unwavering commitment to achieving his goals. He enjoys the outdoors and is always eager to try new things. He is incredibly kind and loves to give unconditionally. His unyielding faith provides him with an inner strength.” says Brett, James’ dad.
James’ journey began in October 2022, during his grade 11 year at Westville Boys High, when he first experienced the agonising pain in his knee. What followed were scans, biopsies, and a diagnosis that would change his life forever. Despite the daunting road ahead, James faced his treatment with determination, undergoing surgery in Pretoria to remove the tumour and preserve his leg.
“Learning of my osteosarcoma diagnosis I initially didn’t show any emotions, focusing on reassuring my family and girlfriend that I was okay. I believed that showing them my strength would help them stay strong. However, as I processed the true implications of the diagnosis and the sacrifices ahead, I became overwhelmed with confusion. I questioned why this was happening to me, feeling as though I was being robbed of typical experiences for a seventeen-year-old, such as planning for the future, attending university, and participating in sports that I loved.” says James.
Pictured above: James and his family at a birthday party
But the battle was far from over while writing his matric last year James also went through chemotherapy and further surgeries which forced him to leave behind the familiar halls of Westville Boys High School at the end of his grade 11 year in 2022. Undeterred, he enrolled in Curro online at the beginning of the academic year in 2023 with the determination of completing his matric. Even as the cancer spread to his lungs, James remained steadfast in his pursuit of education, bravely writing his exams amidst ongoing treatment.
However, during his mid-year trials and three months into his remission James and his family found out the osteosarcoma had spread to his lungs – making it stage four. James had decided to have surgery to remove the tumour and through all of this he was able to achieve a bachelors pass for his matric year.
“Brett and I had come to terms with James facing a challenging battle in 2022 and 2023, but we never anticipated the osteosarcoma spreading to his lungs so aggressively. Our hearts ache for James and our family as we grapple with his prognosis. While we strive to be realistic, we also hold onto faith and hope, knowing that miracles can happen in this fight.” says James’ mum Tamlyn
In January 2024, James underwent yet another round of surgeries, including a lobectomy, which is the removal of a lobe in the lung, in a relentless effort to combat the cancer that threatened his life. Despite the physical toll of his treatments, James’s spirit remains unbroken. He finds solace in his passions – from his love for Formula 1 to his appreciation for nature and music, particularly his skillful strumming of the guitar.
Pictured above: James out for early morning fishing
“Despite all my other passions, the most significant one I grew was the love for the Lord Jesus Christ . I learnt that despite whatever situation you have or what you are going through despite how bad it is, at the end of the day we are saved by his grace, so what more is there to ask for . I like to think of the verse Romans 8:18. “The pain that you’ve been feeling, can’t compare to the joy that’s coming.” As I journeyed through cancer, my other passions grew. Listening to music became my escape during chemotherapy treatment and it helped me sleep at night. I started to practise playing my guitars for multiple hours a day. Additionally my love for motor sport grew especially after my knee replacement hindered certain movements. Despite this, driving remained a source of freedom and normalcy for me, allowing me to operate a car as if nothing had changed. This led me to watching and seeking to expand my knowledge and appreciation for the sport.” explains James
Yet, amidst the strength and resilience, there lies a palpable sense of urgency. Recent medical procedures have brought sobering news, with doctors predicting that James may have only one year left to live. Faced with this stark reality, James is determined to seize every precious moment, creating lasting memories with his beloved family.
But the road ahead is not without its challenges. As medical expenses mount and James’s needs evolve, the Dunford family finds themselves in need of support – from financial assistance to the hiring of a nurse/carer and home adaptations to accommodate James’s needs.
Pictured above: James with his family at the hospital
To alleviate the financial burden, a really good friend of the family, Taryn Armour, has started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised over R114 000 of his R500 000 with the help of 82 incredible donors.
“We are absolutely blown away by how kind everyone has been. The money raised will allow James to tick off his bucket list and make the most amazing memories with loved ones along the way. Long term we will need to look at adapting our home to James requirements.” says James’ parents.
As a community, we have the power to make a difference in James’s life – to stand beside him, offering our love, support, and encouragement every step of the way. Together, let us rally around this remarkable young man and his family, ensuring that they are able to celebrate life and create cherished memories, free from the confines of hospital walls and treatment rooms.
“To me, a donor is someone who selflessly offers something from themselves to help another person or cause. Whether it’s time, money, support or prayers. I want to express my immense gratitude. Thank you for providing me with the opportunity to pursue activities I enjoy and create the most amazing memories with my family and loved ones.” says James.
Join NPO Trulifein their mission to eradicate Gender-Based Violence (GBV) from South African schools. From 15th of May 2024 – to the 24th of May 2024, passionate individuals from the Reddam House Berkshire in the UK are taking part in the “We See You” Challenge, running 100 kilometers in 10 days to raise crucial funds.
Their Goal:
The primary objective of this initiative is to sponsor GBV workshops in 120 schools across KZN. Through education and empowerment, they aim to equip youth and communities with the tools to address and eliminate GBV.
How You Can Help:
Your contributions directly support this vital initiative. Together, we can make a tangible difference and create safer environments for all individuals.
We are excited to announce that Catherine Du Plooy, our Chief Growth Officer, alongside Malvern Mhlanga, Co-Founder & Head of Partnership and Development of Giving Back Fundraising, will be participating as panellists at the upcoming exclusive one-day event – the 2024 IFC Cape Town Pop-Up!
The conference, a collaboration between The Resource Alliance and Relatomics Foundation, promises a day of enriching discussions and networking opportunities for individuals and organisations alike.
Date: June 6th, from 8:30 to 16:30, followed by a mocktail mixer
Prepare to immerse yourself in a dual-track event featuring a diverse range of sessions led by top fundraising experts from South Africa and across the globe.
Whether you’re eager to explore innovative fundraising strategies or sharpen your leadership skills, the IFC Cape Town Pop-Up caters to all. With sessions covering topics such as B-BBEE, Corporate Partnerships, Artificial Intelligence, Impact Investing, Major Donors, Nonprofit Communications, and more, there’s something for everyone.
As part of the panel, Catherine, will share practical strategies and insights on growing individual giving for organisations, addressing common challenges and pitfalls encountered in the South African context. Her expertise and experience in fundraising will undoubtedly provide attendees with actionable takeaways to strengthen their fundraising efforts.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your fundraising endeavours in 2024. Register now to secure your spot at the 2024 IFC Cape Town Pop-Up and join Catherine and other industry leaders for a day of enlightenment, collaboration, and empowerment.
Olebogeng Kgengwe, 28, originally from Bloemfontein and now living in Knysna, is embarking on an impressive 1,600 km cycling journey across the Western Cape into the Karoo’s dry landscape. The journey starts in Knysna and weaves through Sutherland, the Cederberg, and Oudtshoorn from April 6th to 13th. This ambitious route involves a challenging 16,000 to 20,000 meters of vertical ascent.
Pictured above: Olebogeng
This extraordinary quest isn’t just a test of physical stamina; it’s a heartfelt commitment to making a real difference in the world through the power of education.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Olebogeng’s mission is propelled by his firm belief in the transformative power of education and the critical need to support children at a crucial developmental stage.
He has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R38,500 to provide educational packs for 550 underprivileged children in 28 preschools across the disadvantaged areas of Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Sedgefield, and Rheenendal. At R70 each, these packs offer symbols of hope, including activity booklets, play dough, pencils, books, and crafting materials, all crafted to enhance the children’s learning experiences and bolster their developmental progress during school holidays.
Pictured above: Olebogeng
This effort supports the Knysna Education Trust’s preschool intervention program, assisting children who are falling behind in developmental milestones to catch up and prepare for Grade R. Olebogeng is deeply committed to furnishing children in impoverished communities with crucial educational tools, particularly during the critical learning window of school holidays.
Olebogeng’s campaign has already garnered considerable support, raising R26 700 with the generous support of 24 donors.
Olebogeng is an avid athlete having completed three 1000km Munga races and two 1600km journeys from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
Olebogeng shares “I love helping people in need through cycling. It has changed my life in many ways, and I believe I can change others’ lives through riding my bicycle.”
To support Olebogeng Kgengwe’s inspirational campaign, visit:
10-year-old Marcus-Craig Knop, affectionately known as MC from Witbank, Johannesburg, is a little boy who embodies resilience and courage despite facing challenges hidden beneath his seemingly ordinary exterior.
MC is a non-verbal autistic and unique little boy who was first diagnosed at 22 months old with Pervasive Developmental Delay, an informal diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). He was formally diagnosed with ASD when he was three years old. Being non-verbal autistic meant that MC did not communicate with anyone, and this diagnosis, while tough on MC, was also really difficult for his family.
Image above: MC during the Woodside Sanctuary Spring Day festivities
‘At first, it felt like our whole world was tumbling into pieces. All the hopes and dreams I had for MC changed overnight. Yet, this was the beginning of a brand-new adventure.’ says Meryke, MC’s mum.
However, two years ago in 2021 MC found solace in the embrace of Woodside Sanctuary, a home for the intellectually disabled, which offers daily stimulation, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, morning ring, social outings which are accompanied by staff, regular doctor visits (in house), annual psychiatric evaluations and checkups. For MC and his family, the journey to finding the perfect place for him was arduous, but when they discovered Woodside, it became a ray of hope and transformation.
Within the nurturing walls of Woodside, MC has flourished in unimaginable ways. In just two years, he has achieved milestones that once seemed out of reach, surpassing seven years of progress elsewhere. Through the dedicated care and support provided at Woodside, MC has found his voice, making friends, and even mastering the art of speaking some Zulu words.
Image above: MC in a colouring activity class in the simulation department at Woodside Sanctuary
‘Radical improvement are the words that describe how Woodside has changed MC’s life. He has gained a vocabulary that ranges far wider than I could ever expect. He is now fully potty trained. His social skills improved so much that we can now go on family outings and eat at a restaurant. He is no longer running away at the first chance he gets. He can now compose himself and verbalise his basic needs.’ says proud mum Meryke.
The journey towards independence has been significant for MC. Every step forward at Woodside reflects a triumph of spirit and determination. Here, MC receives comprehensive therapy and stimulation tailored to his needs, ensuring holistic development and growth.
More than just a care facility, Woodside is home to MC. It’s a place where he is not judged but celebrated for his uniqueness. Surrounded by peers and caregivers who understand him, MC can truly be himself, embracing his true identity without fear or reservation.
Image above: MC with his mum Meryke, dad Petrus, and siblings Megan, Cayleb, and Klara
Yet, amidst the warmth and love of Woodside, financial constraints loom large for MC’s family. With monthly fees amounting to R13,649.00 and additional expenses for medications and other necessities, the financial burden weighs heavily on his mother, who strives to provide for MC and his siblings on a teacher’s salary.
Despite receiving minimal financial support from MC’s biological father, the financial strain persists, threatening MC’s continued stay at Woodside. As an NPO, Woodside faces its own financial challenges, unable to fully fund MC’s care amidst numerous responsibilities.
MC and his family are reaching out for help through their crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised over R18 000 of his R228 000 with the help of 21 amazing donors.
Image above: MC at the Woodside Sanctuary Christmas party
‘With the money raised on BackaBuddy, MC will be able to stay at Woodside and continue his journey of improvement. He will be able to have his friends with him and will receive the care and therapy that he so desperately needs and deserves.’ explains Meryke.
Their humble request echoes the sentiment of countless families navigating the complexities of caring for a loved one with special needs. With your assistance, MC can continue to thrive at Woodside, embracing every opportunity to grow and develop to his full potential.
‘Thank you to each and every one who has donated to MC’s campaign. I know that thank you may seem too little for the huge impact that you are making in MC’s life and future. If I could, I would scream from the rooftops how extremely thankful and grateful I am to each and every person donor that generously opened up their hearts towards MC.’
At BackaBuddy, we are dedicated to empowering individuals to create positive change in the world, and our team embodies this commitment each day.
Meet Husain Badroodeen (31), BackaBuddy’s Data Science Lead for the last 5 years who lives in Crawford, Cape Town, and his cousin Irshaad Arieff (32), a Chartered Accountant, who are on a mission to transform the lives of vulnerable children. Their goal is to secure a school bus for the 30 children under Solomon Madikane’s care at Realistic Child and Youth Care Centre (RCYCC) in Athlone, Cape Town.
Image Caption: Irshaad (32), Solomon (52) and Husain (31)
Irshaad and Husain found themselves drawn to the RCYCC in December 2022. Irshaad, having lost his father at a tender age, had always felt a calling to support orphans. When he discovered the challenges faced by the RCYCC, particularly in transporting children to school with only a small car available, he knew he had to act.
“I believe every child deserves an equal opportunity to live out and fulfill their dreams,” Irshaad shared. “And this is just one step towards changing the lives of many children at Realistic.”
With a vision of providing every child with equal opportunities, Irshaad reached out to his friend Husain, knowing he shares his passion for making the world in both his personal and professional capacity, who eagerly joined the cause.
Image Caption: Children at RCYCC
RCYCC: Nurturing Dreams Amidst Challenges
RCYCC has been a pillar of support for vulnerable children for over two decades, offering residential care and a nurturing environment. Founded in 2004 by Solomon Madikane, the center has taken over from St Francis Children’s Home to continue and improve on the work done to guarantee proper care for vulnerable children, providing residential care for up to 42 children.
Solomon Madikane is a man who wears many hats, one of those hats being his experience and passion in youth development work to residential care for vulnerable children. He has spent more than 15 years combating the challenges of recidivism, substance misuse, and social crime. Solomon works with young South Africans to free them from a cycle of drugs, crime and imprisonment.
However, the lack of transportation has been a significant barrier to the children’s education and opportunities.
Image Caption: Current transportation at RCYCC
Campaign for Change: Empowering the Next Generation
To address this issue, Irshaad and Husain launched a crowdfunding campaign to provide RCYCC with a much-needed school bus, enabling consistent access to education and other enriching experiences for the children.
“The school bus will make a huge difference in the daily lives and the future ambitions at Realistic. They will be able to confidently know that they have their bus taking them to school and extracurricular activities which they don’t have access to at the moment. They will also then be able to go on excursions and activities by themselves as an orphanage and organize fun events for these kids to explore in Cape Town and widen their horizons,” Husain explained.
Image Caption: Children at RCYCC
The campaign has already gained momentum, raising over R12 200 with generous support of 15 donors contributing towards the fundraising target of R550,000. Every donation brings RCYCC closer to acquiring the school bus and ensuring a brighter future for the children.
“I would like to thank those who are considering contributing and highlight the everlasting benefit this will bring to the lives of the orphans and society at large. Contributing to this campaign will allow all the children at Realistic and future children to travel safely to school and make it easier to realize their dreams. We are helping the future leaders of South Africa with their educational aspirations so that they may make South Africa a better place,” Husain expressed gratefully.
To support RCYCC, visit their BackaBuddy campaign link here:
Pictured above: 19-year-old James Dunford
Pictured above: James and his family at a birthday party
Pictured above: James out for early morning fishing
Pictured above: James with his family at the hospital
