At just 17 years old, Kylie Rossouw from Kempton Park, Johannesburg, faced a formidable challenge that tested her strength and determination. Diagnosed with arteriovenous malformation (AVM) at the age of 15, a complex and life-threatening condition affecting the blood vessels in her brain, Kylie embarked on a courageous journey to reclaim her life.
Pictured: The first weekend Kylie spent at home from the rehab with her three legged rescue dog Lola
Given the gravity of her situation, Kylie had to make a life-altering decision at a tender age – undergo a risky operation with a 4% chance of complications or live a life marked by constraints and uncertainties. Opting for the former, Kylie’s resolve was put to the ultimate test during the surgery on March 7, 2022, when unforeseen complications led to an intraoperative hemorrhage, putting her in a two-day medically induced coma.
Pictured above: Kylie before her operation
The harrowing experience left Kylie’s parents, Angelique and Tertius, grappling with a torrent of emotions. Angelique shares, “How do you stay positive when your heart is broken into a million pieces? These and a million other questions were racing through our minds.”
Upon awakening, Kylie confronted the stark reality of losing feeling and mobility on her left side, challenging not only her physical well-being but also the realization that her dream of becoming a neurosurgeon might be in jeopardy.
Her mother reflects on the scariest moment, “It was the scariest moment of our lives, watching her get taken into theatre. When the doctors decided to wake Kylie and within an instant, our lives changed forever.”
Undeterred, Kylie’s resilience shone through as she embarked on an arduous road to recovery. Nearly three weeks in the hospital were followed by five weeks of intense therapy in a rehabilitation facility in Pretoria. Despite the setback, Kylie achieved a significant milestone, walking unassisted upon her discharge on April 29, 2022.
Pictured above: Kylie discharged from the rehab, showing her progress from being in a wheelchair to using a walking stick and walking on her own
Choosing to take a hiatus from school in 2022 to focus entirely on rehabilitation was a difficult decision for Kylie. However, her unwavering determination to excel academically persists. Despite challenges such as difficulty focusing and limited hand mobility, Kylie aims to pursue Neuropsychology after high school, adapting her aspirations to the new circumstances.
Kylie’s father expresses unwavering faith in her recovery, stating, “Nothing is impossible when she puts her mind to it. She will get better; she is my daughter. I will keep on pushing her to get better.”
Pictured: Kylie, her mom Angelique, father Tertius and brother Ryan
Yet, the journey is not without financial hurdles. Kylie’s family faces mounting medical expenses due to her medical aid provider’s reluctance to cover essential costs. To bridge this gap, the Rossouw family initiated a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaignon April 19, 2022.
The campaign has thus far been instrumental in securing vital therapies, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, botox treatments, and essential medical expenses. Over R96,000 has been raised towards the R150,000 target, a testament to the generosity of family, friends, and a growing community of supporters.
Expressing gratitude, Kylie acknowledges, “Thank you to all the donors who donated to my BackaBuddy campaign. Your belief in me has given me renewed hope and motivation to keep pushing forward.”
Her parents emphasize that Kylie has always been exceptional, a few steps ahead of the average teen, taking responsibility seriously. They reflect, “Being a parent to Kylie is the greatest gift.”
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 R420 Million.
In the serene town of Ranzadale, Wellington, resides the Klopper family – a trio comprising 48-year-old dad, Bennie, 44-year-old mum, Nicolene, and their remarkable 14-year-old son, Ben. Life in the Klopper household may seem ordinary from the outside, but for this family, each day is a battle against an unrelenting adversary: cystic fibrosis.
Image above: 14-year-old brave soul Ben Klopper
Ben’s journey began with a diagnosis of Meconium ileus, a rare bowel obstruction that demanded immediate surgery following his birth, but the challenges didn’t stop there. Soon after, the family received another grim diagnosis – cystic fibrosis. This incurable genetic disorder relentlessly affects multiple organs, primarily the lungs. Thick mucus clogs Ben’s airways, turning each breath into a Herculean task, akin to inhaling through a straw. Their daily life revolves around nebulizing treatments, digesting hundreds of enzyme pills, and managing a multitude of medications. Hospitalizations, recurring infections, and missed school days have become part and parcel of Ben’s reality.
“Ben has a lot of ups and downs currently with his health. As parents, it’s not easy for us to go public with Ben’s health condition, but we also can not sit back and do nothing.” says Bennie.
Image above: Ben and his parents Bennie and Nicolene Klopper
This hurdle however, hasn’t stopped Ben from dreaming and believing. Currently enrolled at Huguenot High School, Ben possesses an entrepreneurial spirit that he is certain will pave the way for his future accomplishments. Driven by an unwavering determination, he is adamant about never working for a boss and firmly believes in his potential to achieve success. In addition to his pursuits, Ben has a passion for playing the guitar and enjoys hitting the gym when his schedule allows.
“This year was the year Ben was out of school the most and his health became a challenge but Ben has never let that deter him and get in the way of his vibrant mind which is constantly teeming with new ideas. He holds a strong belief in himself, and openly acknowledges the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. Animals hold a special place in his heart, and his two dogs are his greatest companions.” Bennie states.
Image above: Ben, Nicolene and Bennie with their dog Fritz
For Ben and his family cystic fibrosis is an ongoing battle, but now a ray of optimism has emerged in the form of Trikafta, a revolutionary drug developed by Vertex. Trikafta has the potential to enhance lung function, facilitate weight gain, and boost energy levels for those grappling with cystic fibrosis. Unfortunately, the exorbitant cost of this medication places it far beyond the Klopper family’s reach. Neither medical aid nor Vertex’s efforts to make the drug accessible in South Africa seem promising.
Thankfully, an alternative solution exists – Trixicar, a more affordable version of the drug manufactured by Gador in Argentina. Yet, there is a hurdle. Trixicar remains inaccessible within the borders of South Africa, leaving the Klopper family at a crossroads, helplessly witnessing Ben’s condition deteriorate with each passing day.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
To halt this heart-wrenching decline, the Klopper family urgently needs Trixicar. The price for this lifeline drug can range between R400,000 and R800,000, depending on dosage and exchange rates. It is at this critical juncture that the Kloppers are reaching out to their extended community, with a humble request for compassion.
The Klopper family has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy with a target of R400 000.00 of which they have managed to raise just over R100 000 with the help of 122 donors. This campaign, launched by the Klopper family, shines as a guiding light of optimism for Ben, offering a channel for their extended network to rally behind this brave young youth.
Image above: Ben at the hospital getting treated
“We had to approach the world and ask for help funding Ben’s very expensive medication. I know there are very good people in this world who understand what we as parents go through, especially with Ben being our only child. I therefore from the bottom of my heart want to thank every good-hearted person who has helped us this far. Every anonymous person, who has donated, you know who you are, thank you so much. We are really grateful for every cent donated this far.” Bennie expresses.
Your contribution has the power to transform Ben’s life, offering him the possibility of a brighter, healthier future. The Klopper family is profoundly grateful for any support you can offer, as they stand together, fighting for Ben’s chance to beat cystic fibrosis and live a life full of promise and hope. Your kind heartedness serves as a source of hope and resilience for the Klopper family and, above all, for Ben. United, we have the power to create a profound, life-altering difference in their lives.
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 R420 Million.
CAPE TOWN – SOUTH AFRICA – A host of South African celebs have taken up the challenge to #StepItUp for children born with clubfoot. Kicking off Disability Awareness Month, which runs from 3 November to 3 December, Britain’s Got Talent finalist Musa Motha has co-choreographed a TikTok dance routine to the sound of an original amapiano track, “I Am Possible”, by legendary local producers Dino Moran, Bee Deejay, and DJ Schuster. Paralympic Games record holder Mpumelolo Mhlongo is also running with the cause, to amplify their message: South Africa, it’s time to #StepItUp.
Pictured above: STEPS FOUNDER, KAREN MOSS WITH MPUMELELO MHLONGO
Working together with local non-profit Steps Clubfoot Care, an organisation that works to improve the lives of children born with clubfoot, aims is to raise R1-million to support the treatment of 400 children born with clubfoot, and prevent disability, through a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy.
“Every year, an estimated 11 000 children are born with clubfoot in Southern Africa. With access to the right resources and medical care, this potentially disabling condition is entirely treatable. Our ambitious goal is to ensure that no child is left untreated, by helping families who would otherwise not have access to treatment. What better way to raise awareness for this cause, than through the universal power of dance?”says Karen Moss, who founded Steps in 2005, after the successful clubfoot treatment of her own son.
Motha, whose left leg was amputated due to cancer when he was 10 years old, and Mhlongo, who was born with amniotic band syndrome (ABS) and clubfoot, were among the first to join the #StepItUp movement.
“All children born with clubfoot deserve an opportunity to walk, run, and dance. The TikTok challenge is a celebration of everything that is possible with access to the right resources – and this can only be achieved if everyone gets involved. Whether you’re a dancer or not, I challenge you to step it up for children born with clubfoot,” says Mhlongo.
“I have accepted the #StepItUp challenge, because I believe that every child should have an opportunity to say ‘I am possible’ to themselves and the world – regardless of whether they are disabled or not. This campaign is an opportunity for everybody to make a difference in the life of a child born with clubfoot,” says Motha.
The song “I Am Possible” is available for download for just R10 – but supporters are welcome to make larger donations too, through STEPS’ crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy.
“The #StepItUp campaign is about sharing a universal message of hope and inclusion. We want to make a difference in the lives of as many children as possible. A major part of this is raising awareness, which is critical to addressing stigma and getting more children into treatment. This is why we are appealing to the broader public for support,” says Moss.
Pictured above: JOIN THE NOVEMBER #STEPITUP DANCE CHALLENGE
Steps is a South African-based non-profit organisation that works to improve the lives of children born with clubfoot, focusing on advocacy, patient-centred care, and supplying clubfoot braces. Clubfoot is the most common musculoskeletal birth defect globally, in which a baby is born with one or both feet twisted downwards and inwards, in a rigid position. If left untreated, children will not be able to wear shoes or walk normally, leading to a life of disability, pain, and isolation. Unlike many other birth defects, clubfoot can be treated.
To date, STEPS has helped over 18 000 children across Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia) – with more than 4 000 currently in treatment at 38 specialist partner clinics. For more information, visit www.steps.org.za
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 R420 Million.
Creating a fundraising campaign that successfully raises funds for someone in need starts with crafting a compelling crowdfunding story. Your story is the foundation upon which you can build an emotional connection with potential supporters and inspire them to donate to your cause.
In this guide, we have compiled a list of 10 essential elements to consider when writing a powerful online appeal.
Get inspiration from skilled storytellers
Before penning your story, take some time to explore successful fundraisers and their stories. Look for examples of courageous storytelling that moved you to tears, touched your heart, or left you feeling inspired. Reflect on the specific aspects of these stories that resonate with you and consider how you can incorporate similar elements into your own narrative.
The title of your fundraiser is the first introduction to your campaign. It holds immense power as it draws attention to your plight and can encourage potential donors to visit your campaign page. Will you choose a lighthearted approach to grab attention or an emotive one to tug at heartstrings? Whatever you choose, make sure to include the name of your beneficiary and highlight their specific need for fundraising.
Introduce your beneficiary
Begin your crowdfunding story by introducing the person or people you are fundraising for. Who are they? What is their name, age, and where do they come from? It’s important to provide some meaningful backgroundinformation about the focal point of your campaign and why they are in need of help. Are they battling a medical condition, facing financial hardship, or have they been presented with an exciting opportunity?
As the storyteller, what is your personal relationship to the beneficiary or the cause? Sharing your personal connection can help build trust and credibility with potential supporters, and allow them to better empathize with your cause.
Nickey Seger launched her ‘Power of a Promise’ campaign to cover Nellie Khuzwayo’s final year of private school, which she paid out of her pocket for 9 years. Introducing Nellie, and the wonderful young lady she had grown up to become, Nickey reached her target, and had funds left over to send Nellie to Nursing school.
What lead you to crowdfunding?
Capture the defining moment that motivated you to start your crowdfunding campaign. What specific event or circumstance sparked your decision to seek support from others? Whether it was a personal experience, financial hardship, or sudden crisis, express it in a clear and captivating sentence or two. This will give your story context and provide potential donors with a deeper understanding of the situation, and how the needs, which your crowdfunding campaign hopes to address, came to be.
Your funding needs
It’s crucial to clearly define the need or challenge that you’re raising funds for. Provide specific details about how the issue is affecting the person in need, so potential supporters can understand the gravity and urgency of the situation. To help donors relate to your cause communicate the needs in a tangible way, providing a breakdown of costs where possible.
The Impact of your campaign
It’s important to clearly communicate the positive impact donations will have if the campaign is successful. This could include specific goals you hope to achieve or the positive changes that will occur in the beneficiary’s life. Donors contribute to causes because they are hopeful and empathetic individuals that want to be a part of the solution and know in their hearts that have made a meaningful difference.
Naledi Thahanyane, who lives in a children’s home in Johannesburg, was only 4-years-old when doctors discovered she needed Life-saving heart surgery to save her life. With donors understanding the clear impact of their donations, little Naledi was able to have her surgery and celebrates full-health today.
Call to action
Encourage potential supporters to donate to your cause and share your campaign with their networks to help reach a wider audience. Reiterate your gratitude and remind donors of the impact they will help to create for your beneficiary. Additionally include links to your social media channels where donors can receive regular updates on the progress of the campaign.
Editing
It’s important to take the time to edit and refine your message before sharing it with potential supporters. Keep your message short and concise, no longer than 200-500 words, and use paragraphs and comfortable spacing to separate your ideas. To highlight important information, consider bolding, underlining, or italicizing key phrases or words.
It’s also important to maintain a friendly and conversational tone throughout your campaign message. Don’t be afraid to inject some personality into your story, as it will put donors at ease and encourage them to support you on your fundraising journey.
Before sharing your campaign, be sure to do a quick spelling and grammar check. Consider asking someone you trust to proofread your story for you, as they may be able to catch errors or provide valuable feedback.
Visual Storytelling
Incorporating visual elements such as images, infographics and videos into your crowdfunding story can make your appeal more compelling to donors, as it brings the cause to life and adds a sense of reliability to your cause.
Studies indicate that fundraisers with a video tend to raise 4X more funds than those without, as it can build an emotional connection with potential supporters, increase credibility, and make it easier to convey complex information. When selecting visuals for your campaign, ensure that they are high-quality and relevant to the story you are sharing.
Sean Clarke, a Para-athlete from Johannesburg, provides a great example of an effective crowdfunding video. In his campaign to raise funds for James, a teenager in need of a prosthetic leg, Sean created a short yet impactful video introducing James and his life-long struggles.
Updates & Milestones
To keep your supporters engaged and invested in your crowdfunding campaign, it’s essential to provide regular updates. Let your donors know when you reach important milestones and express your appreciation for their continued support. Share the impact that contributions have made, so that donors may see the measurable difference they have created. Regular updates not only build trust but also motivate continued support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crafting a crowdfunding story is more than a mere appeal for donation it’s about creating a heart-to-heart connection with potential donors.
Showcase the real people behind their struggles and their dreams. Demonstrate the impact funds will have on your beneficiary and be transparent about how funds will be used.
By bravely sharing your story with authenticity and vulnerability, you can inspire others to join your cause and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
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Create a crowdfunding campaign
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 R400 Million.
In a world often defined by chaos and uncertainty, Trinity Van Beeck, a 16-year-old teenager from Brackenfell, carries a heart brimming with empathy and a burning desire to make a difference.
Trinity, a dedicated student at Curro Durbanville High School, currently in Grade 10, and an active member of the Cape Town Junior City Council, is on a mission to bring about significant change in her community by providing ‘Blessing Bags’ to those who need them the most.
Pictured above: Trinity Van Beeck
Trinity’s story is not merely a tale of academic achievements and her passion for chess; it’s a narrative of compassion, empathy, and unwavering determination. She’s the driving force behind “Horizons of Hope,” a project dedicated to delivering essential hygiene kits to the homeless individuals of Cape Town.
In South Africa, the issue of homelessness has reached alarming proportions, leaving countless individuals and families without stable shelter. For them, access to basic hygiene products often remains an unattainable dream, exacerbating the challenges they face in their daily lives. Trinity recognized this crisis and took it upon herself to take action.
“Horizons of Hope” stands as Trinity’s response to the pressing issue of homelessness. She passionately expresses,
“It is no secret that homelessness in South Africa has reached unprecedented levels. Despite our country’s rich cultural diversity and vast economic potential, we are also confronted with the daunting challenge of homelessness. A substantial portion of our population grapples with the harsh realities of living without a stable shelter. For these individuals and their families, obtaining access to basic hygiene products often proves to be an impossible task, further intensifying the challenges that most of us can’t even begin to imagine. ‘Horizons of Hope’ is my response to this pressing issue and the dire need for support within the homeless community. Our mission is clear: To provide essential hygiene kits to the most vulnerable members of our society.”
Each Blessing Bag, with a cost ranging between R100 and R110, contains items like toothpaste, deodorant, toothbrushes, facecloths, feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, lotion, and soap. While these may seem like everyday items to many of us, they can make a world of difference to those who lack access to them.
To finance her “Horizons of Hope” campaign, Trinity initiated a crowdfunding effort on BackaBuddy with a goal of raising R11,000 to purchase 110 bags. She has made significant progress, having raised over R3400 already, thanks to the generosity of 10 donors.
Trinity’s journey toward making a difference commenced at an exceptionally young age. Her mother, Marisa Laas, lovingly recalls,
“At only 3 years old, Trinity asked me to make a list of things she needed to give to ‘the poor people,’ this included a car, purple paint for their houses, and toys for the children. She has always been a beautiful empathetic soul with a heart for those less fortunate than herself. I am so proud to be a bystander in her journey through life.”
Pictured above: Trinity and her mom, Marisa
Trinity’s compassionate spirit and unwavering determination are truly inspiring as she strives to bring about positive change in the lives of the homeless in her community.
At the age of 12, Trinity displayed her benevolence by raising over R40,000 on BackaBuddy to assist her 11-year-old chess prodigy friend, Amahle Zenzile, from Crossroads in Cape Town, to travel to Namibia and participate in the African Youth Chess Tournament.
Trinity’s mission serves as a poignant reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can ignite a wave of positive change. She is indeed a beacon of hope in her community.
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 R420 Million.
In 2006, the Santa Shoebox Project began with a modest 180 shoeboxes in Cape Town, South Africa. Over the past 17 years, it has blossomed into an annual tradition of generosity and kindness, amassing an astonishing 1,152,587 shoebox donations. This heartwarming initiative now touches the lives of over 1,000 recipient facilities annually, employing a network of more than 60 satellites across South Africa and Namibia.
Image: Santa Shoebox Project Website
At the heart of the Santa Shoebox Project’s remarkable success is its deeply personal touch. Donors lovingly contribute essential items and delightful treats to children whose names, ages, and genders are known. These shoeboxes consist of a minimum of eight items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, a washcloth, sweets, a toy, school supplies, and a new, age-appropriate outfit of clothing.
The project’s enduring success is also due to the dedication of a vast network of volunteers who selflessly donate their time, energy, and expertise without financial compensation. Additionally, it relies on the generous support of corporate sponsors who provide monetary and pro bono assistance.
Image: Santa Shoebox Project Website
Launching a Crowdfunding Campaign to Create Holiday Magic
To ensure that the magic of the holiday season reaches even more underprivileged children, the Santa Shoebox Project has initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. The campaign aims to raise R100,000 to create as many Virtual Santa Shoeboxes as possible.
The Virtual Santa Shoeboxes (VSS) are a new addition to the project, assembled by devoted teams of volunteers. These boxes are then distributed to underprivileged children living in remote areas of South Africa, where access to holiday gifts is limited. The VSS contains the same eight essential items, which bring smiles and warmth to the young faces they reach.
Image: Santa Shoebox Project Website
In addition to the essentials, the VSS may include additional sponsored items like books and teen hygiene products. These shoeboxes are meticulously packaged, delivered, and personally handed to the beneficiary child, making the experience all the more heartfelt and meaningful.
The Impact of Your Gift
Even if your purchase arrives after the current campaign’s allocations and deliveries, rest assured that your Virtual Santa Shoebox will be carried over to the following year, ensuring that it ultimately reaches a child in need. Beyond the joy these boxes bring, your support helps sustain this vital project, allowing it to continue uplifting and empowering underprivileged children throughout South Africa and Namibia.
How You Can Help
You can be a part of this holiday magic by sponsoring a Virtual Santa Shoebox for just R450. Join the Santa Shoebox Project in making this holiday season brighter for children in need. Purchase your Virtual Santa Shoebox today and experience the joy of giving.
If you are a South African resident and would like a tax-deductible receipt for your donation, please send your request to [email protected] with proof of your donation attached to your email.
It’s worth noting that BackaBuddy offers all registered non-profits raising funds on the platform a 0% platform fee, ensuring that more of your funds directly benefit charities and their beneficiaries.
Create a crowdfunding campaign
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 R420 Million.
Pictured: The first weekend Kylie spent at home from the rehab with her three legged rescue dog Lola
Pictured above: Kylie before her operation
Pictured above: Kylie discharged from the rehab, showing her progress from being in a wheelchair to using a walking stick and walking on her own
Pictured: Kylie, her mom Angelique, father Tertius and brother Ryan
Pictured above: Challenge Participation Steps
Pictured above: STEPS Donation Information
Image: Santa Shoebox Project Website
