Mosa Mphore knows firsthand the life-changing impact of organ donation. At just 22 years old, Mosa’s life was interrupted by a devastating diagnosis of end-stage kidney failure. Facing advanced kidney disease, he spent two years on dialysis, fighting daily for his survival. In 2013, everything changed when Mosa received the precious gift of a kidney transplant – a donation that saved his life and set him on a new path. Now, Mosa is on a mission to inspire others to give the same gift by becoming organ donors.
“When I got that call, I knew my life was about to change,” Mosa recalls. “But it also gave me a purpose: to share my story and educate people on how organ donation gives others a second chance at life.”
Today, Mosa is the founder of the Open-Eye Foundation, an organization devoted to educating South Africans about the power of organ donation. Through his foundation, Mosa works tirelessly to break down misconceptions about organ donation and encourage others to register as donors. His mission is simple yet profound: to save lives by increasing organ donor registrations and creating a culture of compassion and generosity.
To amplify his message, Mosa has organized the Pedals and Provinces Cycle Tour, a 3-day cycling journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Scheduled for November 22 to November 24, this inspiring event invites cyclists to pedal across provinces, raising awareness about organ donation and the countless lives it can save. Mosa sees this tour as a way to symbolize the journey that many patients endure as they wait on transplant lists, hoping for their second chance.
“We want to break down the misconceptions and cultural barriers surrounding organ donation,” Mosa explains. “The simple act of saying ‘yes’ to becoming a donor can transform lives. We’re pedalling for second chances and renewed lives.”
The event not only seeks to inspire South Africans to consider organ donation, but it also aims to raise funds that will support transplant centres and assist patients undergoing challenging treatment. By participating, each rider becomes part of a nationwide movement that advocates for those waiting on life-saving transplants.
Image above: Participants taking part in the cycle tour
Funds from the Pedals and Provinces Cycle Tour will be used to support renal and liver failure patients in public hospitals who often face difficult treatment journeys without adequate resources. From providing transportation for dialysis to offering food hampers, comfort items, and counseling, this support makes an enormous difference for patients and their families. The foundation also plans to launch its Transplant Assist Program (T.A.P.), connecting patients with potential living donors and providing essential guidance through the transplant process.
Event Details:
Date: November 22 – November 24, 2024
Route: From Johannesburg to Cape Town
Purpose: To inspire organ donor registrations and raise funds to support patients awaiting transplants
How You Can Join the Movement
Support the Cycle Tour – Your donations on the Mosa’s BackaBuddy campaign help provide crucial resources for patients facing organ failure.
Register as an Organ Donor – A simple “yes” could give someone else a second chance at life.
Participate in the Ride – Join the journey and ride for a cause that has the power to transform lives.
“When you give your consent to organ donation, you’re giving someone else a second chance at life,” Mosa shares.
Join him and the Open-Eye Foundation this November, and be part of a movement that’s changing lives, one pedal stroke at a time.
For more information or to make a donation, visit the Open-Eye Foundation’s website or follow them on social media for updates.
In July of last year, 32-year-old Timothy Bentley, a mechanical engineer from Cape Town, found his life suddenly upended. Following what seemed to be a common viral infection, Tim’s health began to unravel in ways he could never have imagined. His diagnosis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, has led to a downward spiral in his health, leaving him bed-bound and dependent on loved ones for even the simplest tasks.
Pictured above: 32-year-old Timothy Bentley
Tim’s journey to a diagnosis was a lengthy one; it took over eight months from his initial infection to get any real answers. During that time, he endured the deterioration of his physical and mental capacities. Once an avid mountain biker, racer, and BMX dirt jumper who loved going to live concerts and the beach, Tim has now lost access to the activities and lifestyle that once defined him. “It’s been extremely tough on me,” Tim shares. “I was incredibly active before I got sick. Now, it’s so isolating, and every test builds my hopes, only for them to be dashed when the results come back.”
For Tim, every day is a challenge. The debilitating fatigue and body aches prevent even basic movement. He experiences severe light and noise sensitivity, vertigo, dizziness, and cognitive impairments that make screen time or even looking at his phone for more than a few minutes nearly impossible. Adding to the strain, Tim’s body no longer tolerates any physical or mental exertion, temperature changes, or bright lights, which worsen his symptoms. The condition is thought to be linked to a viral trigger, yet the exact biological cause of ME/CFS remains unknown – akin to the mystery surrounding long COVID. Medical experts theorize it could stem from cellular energy production issues, immune system reactions, or even brain stem damage.
Pictured above: Tim in his mountain biking element
Tim’s partner, Frankie Du Toit (27), has become his steadfast support, taking on all household responsibilities, from cooking and cleaning to managing finances. “Frankie’s been my rock,” Tim says. “She’s taken over everything, been my emotional support, and helps with daily tasks I can’t do myself, like showering.” Tim’s parents, James and Sue Bentley, have also had to adjust their lives significantly. They come by daily to prepare meals, handle the cleaning, and take him to all his medical appointments, all while managing the financial burden of ongoing treatments. “It’s been overwhelming,” Tim reflects. “This whole experience has placed a tremendous financial and emotional strain on my parents. They’ve spent nearly all their savings on my medical care.”
The road to recovery has been paved with medical tests and expenses. Currently, Tim is awaiting the results of a full brain and spine MRI to rule out conditions that mimic ME/CFS, such as cervical spinal stenosis. Additionally, he’s waiting for blood test results to check for heavy metal allergies to titanium, as he has plates and screws in his foot from past injuries. If these tests show no further complications, the focus will shift to managing his symptoms.
Pictured above: Tim Bentley
Amidst this uphill battle, Tim remains hopeful, inspired by stories of others who have recovered from ME/CFS. “The thought that one day I might be able to ride again and do the things I love is what keeps me going,” he says. His gratitude for the outpouring of support from 136 donors on his BackaBuddy campaign, which has raised over R163,000 so far, is profound. “Thank you so much to everyone who has donated, no matter how big or small,” Tim says. “Thank you to my wonderful friends, especially from the mountain biking community, who have donated and shared my story. And thank you to the kind people who don’t even know me but have still donated. I wish I could personally thank each and every one of you!”
As Tim continues his journey, the generosity of supporters has been a vital source of strength and hope. “It’s been absolutely overwhelming and has taken a huge financial burden off my parents. Knowing that I’m not forgotten during this incredibly challenging time means the world to me,” TIm says. The support allows him to focus on his next steps toward recovery, holding on to the hope that one day he will be back on his bike, conquering new trails, and living the life he once loved.
In 2020, amid the profound impact of the pandemic on families, Nicole Arrison, our very own Systems & Quality Assurance Analyst here at BackaBuddy from Kensington, Cape Town, found a unique way to celebrate her December 21st birthday – by giving back. Inspired by the pressing need she saw around her, Nicole set a goal to provide 21 grocery boxes to families in need. What began as a simple idea soon grew into something much larger, thanks to overwhelming support from friends, family, and even strangers around the world.
Reflecting on the first year of Box21For21, Nicole says, “I was overwhelmed with the support from all over the world – receiving donations from America, Malaysia, and Sweden. On the day of my birthday, driving around to deliver the boxes, I held back a lot of happy tears just witnessing the joy and relief on people’s faces.”
Since then, the initiative has grown to include stationery relief, providing children with essentials for school. Each year brings challenges, yet Nicole remains undeterred. Although work commitments limited her 2022 efforts, and the funds raised in 2023 fell short of her R21,000 goal, Nicole ensured that every rand was put to good use, contributing to a charity Christmas lunch for the homeless.
Pictured above: Groceries included in each box
This year, Nicole is starting early, calling on the generosity of supporters to help her provide essential grocery boxes to struggling families. She’s once again launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, raising over R1,000 of her R25,000 goal with the help of six incredible donors. She reflects on the initiative’s broader impact stating: “Sadly, it’s not only the rising cost of living that has hit the communities around me but also the recent storms and harsh winters. Yet, I’m optimistic – South Africa is the home of ‘ubuntu,’ and my hope is that Box21For21 can grow to a point where we have a constant rotation of grocery relief boxes being distributed.”
Each grocery box includes fresh produce, rice, tinned food, hygiene products, and a little bit of festive cheer. For many families, these items make a world of difference. “One mother shared how, after the loss of her son – who was their only source of income – she didn’t know where their next meal would come from. Thanks to the grocery box, that stress was alleviated, and they could enjoy Christmas. Knowing that I could help bring them some festive joy is a feeling I hold very close to my heart.” Nicole says
Pictured above: Box21For21 boxes packed and ready to be distributed
Nicole’s vision for Box21For21 is bold but grounded in compassion. She believes that with ongoing support, this initiative can help more families in need each year. “Your contribution has an unseen ripple effect, spreading joy and compassion that’s truly incomprehensible. Together, we can make this season brighter for families facing tough times. Thank you for supporting Box21For21 and sharing in my mission to make a difference.”
Picture a young child, eyes gleaming with excitement, clutching a book they can now call their own. This Christmas, through the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s Blue Crane Book Project, you can help make that simple, profound dream a reality for thousands of children.
In the heart of the Eastern Cape’s Blue Crane District, the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s goal is to deliver not just a gift but the joy of reading to 3,000 young learners. For as little as R50, you can sponsor a gift that includes a captivating storybook, sweets, and a small toy – a complete Christmas package for a child who may have very little to call their own.
“We employ 40 reading assistants who provide intensive one-on-one reading sessions to children with severe reading disabilities,” shares the Jakes Gerwel Foundation.
These reading assistants work in dedicated classrooms within local schools, transformed into nurturing reading rooms filled with books, colourful shelves, cosy mats, and engaging word games. These safe spaces are not only helping children learn to read but are inspiring a love of literature that could change their lives forever.
Beyond their regular reading sessions, the foundation organises holiday programs with plays, word games, food parcels, and face painting, creating a memorable experience for every child involved. “Through these activities, we aim to foster a sense of community and demonstrate that reading and books can be fun,” the foundation explains.
You can be part of this wonderful mission to spread Christmas cheer and hope to young learners in Pearston, KwaNojoli, Somerset East, and Cookhouse. By supporting the Blue Crane Book Project’s BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign where they have raised over R1900 with the aid of 5 incredible donors, you’re joining a movement that brings not only gifts but the potential for a brighter future.
The Grace Factory, situated in Gauteng, continues its compassionate mission of supporting vulnerable mothers and their newborn babies. Since 2012, The Grace Factory has acted as a pillar of support for mothers in need, likened to a “Santa for moms,” providing dignity and relief at one of life’s most vulnerable moments.
With 400 “bundles of joy” maternity packs filled with essential goodies, distributed this past weekend, hundreds of moms across Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal can now rest a little easier. These colourful bags, emblazoned with The Grace Factory’s logo, symbolise hope and relief for mothers-to-be who are often burdened with immense stress.
Each bundle contains thoughtful items designed to ease the burden of caring for a newborn. Baby clothes, nappies, wet wipes, baby soap, maternity pads, and breast pads are among the essential gifts packed into these life-changing bags. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, 200 packs were prepared in both provinces over the weekend, bringing smiles and reassurance to 400 families. These maternity packs are distributed to hospitals, clinics, social workers, and community partners.
Donate specific items (the full list is available on their website)
Sponsor a packing day
Host a donation drive to help another 100 mothers and babies in need
The Grace Factory remains dedicated to placing value and dignity on every mother during this critical time in her life. Their vision is clear: no mother should deliver her baby without the basic care essentials, and through the collective support of communities, they continue to make that vision a reality.
The Santa Shoebox Project has launched a festive crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R45,000 for their 2024 initiative, themed “A Step Towards Brighter Tomorrows.” While the campaign’s financial target is R45,000, the project still needs to collect and deliver 10,000 shoeboxes to reach its overall goal of more than 75,000.
This year’s campaign highlights the crucial role that quality educational and psycho-social resources play in shaping the futures of South African children. With almost 65,000 shoeboxes already pledged, the project is now in its final stretch to ensure all 75,000+ boxes are filled with essentials and delivered to children in need.
Although donations can be made at any time, there are drop-off deadlines for Traditional Shoeboxes at 50+ points countrywide. For those who are unable to shop for or drop off a Traditional Shoebox, the Virtual Santa Shoebox offers a convenient alternative. A Virtual Santa Shoebox costs R450, allowing donors—even those overseas—to make a lasting difference in a child’s life from the comfort of their own home.
The Virtual Santa Shoebox initiative specifically supports impoverished children living in rural areas, far from cities and towns. These children rely on the project for basic necessities, treats, a new outfit for Christmas Day, and school supplies for the year ahead. Volunteers carefully pack each shoebox, ensuring that every item—whether hygiene products, clothing, or educational supplies—addresses the unique needs of children growing up in difficult circumstances.
Image credit: Santa Shoebox Project
Why Choose a Virtual Santa Shoebox?
The Virtual Santa Shoebox option is ideal for supporters who may not have the time or means to pack and drop off a Traditional Shoebox. It offers an easy way for donors, wherever they are, to provide meaningful support to a child in need.
A 2024 video featuring 10-year-old Aviwe, a recipient in the Western Cape, beautifully captures the joy these boxes bring. Aviwe’s excitement over receiving basics like a toothbrush and soap is a powerful reminder of how something we take for granted can mean the world to someone else.
Watch the video here:
A Legacy of Giving
Since its inception in 2006, the Santa Shoebox Project has distributed an incredible 1,226,576 shoeboxes to underprivileged children across South Africa and Namibia. From its humble beginnings with 180 shoeboxes in Cape Town, the project has grown into a nationwide initiative impacting more than 1,000 educational and care facilities each year.
“Each Santa Shoebox is so much more than ‘just’ a gift,” says Deborah Zelezniak, Chief Executive Officer of the Santa Shoebox Project. “Every item is selected with care, considering the daily challenges these children face and their potential to thrive in the future. Whether you donate your time, funds, or a shoebox, you’re making a meaningful difference in the life of a child.”
Image credit: Santa Shoebox Project
The project’s impact goes beyond the shoeboxes themselves. Through the Santa Shoebox Legacy, the initiative has built 5 Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centres, established 223 reading hubs, and trained more than 1,500 ECD practitioners. The funds raised through the Virtual Santa Shoebox campaign will also support these vital programs, ensuring long-term support for under-resourced children and their communities.
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re too busy to shop for a Traditional Shoebox or live far from a drop-off point, contributing to a Virtual Santa Shoebox is a simple yet impactful way to help. Every shoebox is a step towards addressing the vast inequalities faced by South Africa’s most vulnerable children. Join the movement and make a difference by pledging today through BackaBuddy.
To donate and support the BackaBuddy campaign, visit:
Image above: Participants taking part in the cycle tour
