Mpumalanga resident, Robin Lewis, and his wife, Jolandie, will embark on a 10-year 64-country journey spanning three continents to spread global awareness around the importance of stem cell donation.
Pictured above: Robin Lewis and his wife, Jolandie, in hospital following his stem cell transplant in 2018. Robin was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia, a genetic DNA repair disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid tumors in the body.
The pair, who will start their Matches on the Map journey from their hometown Nelspruit in August, will be travelling an estimated 110 000 kilometres through Africa, Europe, and Asia in their one-of-a-kind custom-built motorhome affectionately known as “Betsy”. The vehicle is an old fire truck that has been converted to run on “used” cooking oil to be more sustainable and save on diesel costs.
The husband-and-wife duo was inspired to take on this project, following a successful stem cell transplant after Robin was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia – a genetic DNA repair disorder that may lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid cancerous tumors.
The chance of finding a matching donor is like a needle in a haystack given the number of donors registered worldwide, but thankfully Robin went on to have a haploidentical (partially matched) transplant. This was the only matched donor available for Robin in the
world.
Lewis hopes that they can help patients who find themselves in a similar situation. Their objective is to sign up thousands of donors in partnership with the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR), as they journey through each continent, starting in Africa.
“If it wasn’t for the stem cell transplant, I would not be here today. Since then, we’ve been plotting ideas of how to raise greater public awareness around stem cell donation, and that’s how ‘Matches on the Map’ was born.”
Picture above: On the right is their one-of-a-kind motorhome, dubbed “Betsy”, that will provide transport and accommodation for the pair on their 3 650-day journey.
The aim is to add diversity not only to the SABMR but registry databases in countries they will be travelling to with the goal of finding matches for patients en route.
Lewis says planning the expedition has taken hundreds of hours of research, looking at routes, locations, border crossings and safety concerns. This while at the same time building Betsy which has taken up the most part of four years.
“After my transplant five years ago, my wife and I started planning the trip with the hope of changing the world. Our plan was very ambitious, and we soon realised that we couldn’t do it alone. As Fanconi Anemia nearly claimed my life, we decided that we would also focus on establishing support groups for patients with this disease as we make our way through various countries, meeting up with families that are affected, and sharing their stories.
“Building the truck has taken us four years and we can’t wait to get on the road with Betsy and officially get the Matches on the Map project underway. We’re very grateful for the SABMR, who will be assisting us with stem cell donor kits, documentation, export and import logistics, marketing efforts and support every step of the way. They’ve been 100% behind us since day one.”
Nadia Chalkley, Head of Donor Recruitment for the SABMR says Matches on the Map will allow access to a broad and much more diverse spectrum of donors.
“Ethnicity plays a huge role in finding donor matches, especially for patients of colour. Currently, only 35% of our donor base is of colour, which is not reflective of the demographic make-up of South Africa. This limits our ability to find matches for patients who are of African or Indian descent.”
“While we are making progress through our in-person community drives across the country and online donor registrations, we need to consistently educate and sign up donors to give all patients a fighting chance. This project will bring us closer to making our donor database more diverse. The more donors we have from various ethnic backgrounds, the greater the chances of a match,” she says.
Lewis explains there is still a lot of work that is required before Betsy takes off on her maiden voyage.
“We still have a way to go before Betsy gets on the road, but we are confident that we will have her completed in time. We have launched a crowdfunding campaign via Backabuddy in collaboration with the SABMR to assist us with ongoing operational costs on the road and to raise additional funds for the Registry’s donor recruitment efforts as stem cell kits and the processing thereof is quite expensive.”
“We want to appeal to corporates and the public to come on board and help us fulfil this dream of making a meaningful change in the lives of patients who require a stem cell transplant. The likelihood of people from certain ethnic backgrounds finding a successful match is a mere 37% compared to patients from European descent whose chances are 72%. As a survivor myself, I know what a harrowing experience it is to have to wait for a donor match when you’re running out of time.”
Since the launch of the crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, over R2000 has been raised towards their fundraising target of R150 000.
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 R430 Million.
Matthew Sledge, a 51-year-old resident of Kensington, Johannesburg, completed an extraordinary challenge at the upcoming Mandela Day Houghton 10km run on July 16th. This year’s event held immense significance as it marked the 10th anniversary of the passing of the revered leader, Nelson Mandela. Driven by his unwavering enthusiasm to support the remarkable work of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sledge aimed to make waves with his unique fundraising efforts.
While some may have perceived a 10km run as routine, Sledge decided to take his participation to an entirely new level. In a bold and daring move, he committed to completing the run dressed in nothing but a speedo.
What’s more, he undertook this endeavor on what was expected to be the coldest day of the year, ensuring that his presence will be an unforgettable spectacle, capturing the attention of onlookers and inspiring them to contribute to the cause.
Pictured above: Matthew Sledge
When asked about the inspiration behind this extraordinary campaign, Sledge expressed his deep admiration for the significance of Mandela Day and the opportunity it presents to raise funds. He revealed that the idea to don a speedo came from his partner, Belinda, who challenged him to make his participation even more memorable.
In a generous gesture, Hollard, the provider of the speedo, pledged R10,000 to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation in recognition of Sledge’s courageous participation.
To lend purpose to his frosty adventure and support the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sledge launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. He called on individuals to sponsor his run and make donations to the Foundation.
“My passion for Mandela Day stems from honoring Nelson Mandela’s legacy and my desire to make a difference in someone else’s life,” said Matthew.
Pictured above: Matthew Sledge
Highlighting his choice to support the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Sledge emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to education as a fundamental pillar.
Quoting Mandela, he stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Sledge hoped that the funds raised will contribute to the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to educate and empower others.
Since the launch of his campaign, Matthew has raised over R32 000 towards his fundraising target of R50 000.
Supporters can still contribute to Sledge’s campaign by visiting the BackaBuddy website or by using Snapscan for donations. Additionally, Sledge extended an invitation to fellow runners to join him in supporting the Nelson Mandela Foundation by registering for the Mandela Day Houghton Run through the official website.
As the Mandela Day Houghton 10km run drew near, all eyes were on Matthew Sledge as he fearlessly took on the challenge in his speedo, fueled by his determination to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
An update message from Matthew:
Happy Mandela Day and a heartfelt thank you to all of the wonderfully generous people – you know who you are – who supported my fundraiser and helped me raise R32,000 for the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
You’ll be happy to hear I completed my 10km run as promised, wearing nothing but my Hollard Daredevil Run purple speedo, in a respectable 50 minutes, spurred on by the fantastic race day atmosphere.
It was a very special event and in spite of the chilly winter air there was a real buzz on the start line and all the way along the route.
Thank you to the Mandela Foundation for a fun day, to Vida e Cafe who sponsored my coffee at the finish line and a big shout out to Hollard who generously donated R10,000 to CANSA and The Prostate Cancer Foundation in my name.
For more information or to support Matthew Sledge’s campaign, please visit:
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.
We had an incredible year in 2022 in terms of raising funds for various worthy causes.
According to our annual statistics released by the organization, we raised a staggering R79 million (about $5.4 million) in 2022 alone, and have raised a total of R378 million (about $25.5 million) since our inception.
One of the standout campaigns on our platform in 2022 was the Hope for Kyleigh campaign, which aimed to raise funds for a young girl from Gauteng to receive life-saving heart surgery in the US.
Kyleigh Kista, from Benoni, was born with a complex congenital heart defect that required a specialized procedure at Boston Children’s Hospital.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, both locally and abroad, the campaign was able to raise an astounding R4 million, both online and offline.
In March, Kyleigh underwent a cardiac catheterization procedure in which her arteries were widened with a balloon, a stent was placed, and the dual supply was repaired. The procedure was a complete success and Kyleigh recovered quickly.
Another campaign that received an overwhelming amount of support on our platform was one to fund a diabetic alert dog for two-year-old, Jenna-Mae van der Vyver, from Krugersdorp.
Diabetic alert dogs are trained to recognize when their owner’s blood sugar levels are getting too high or too low, and can alert them or their caregivers in time for them to take appropriate action.
These dogs can be expensive, with costs ranging from R30,000 to R60,000. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of strangers, the campaign exceeded its target, ensuring that the young girl could bring her forever-companion home.
Internet celebrity Vernon Koekemoer, also known as “SA’s Chuck Norris,” was the beneficiary of another successful campaign on our platform. Koekemoer became an instant celebrity in 2008 after a photograph of him taken at an H20 party went viral, but he has since faced a number of health complications due to three failed hip operations.
South Africans were quick to respond to the campaign, donating more than R100,000 to cover the costs of Koekemoer’s medical treatment and comprehensive care.
In total, we raised over R13 million in 2022 compared to 2021, with over 13,500 campaigns being created on the platform. This represents a 17% increase in campaigns year-on-year. Most of these campaigns were related to funding medical procedures and sporting events.
Our CEO Patrick Schofield attributed the success of the platform to the fact that people became more compassionate and aware of the struggles of others due to the pandemic, and were more willing to give in various ways.
Surveys of our donors showed that many people were interested in donating not just their money, but also their time and skills to support causes that they were passionate about.
The stories of Kyleigh, Jenna-Mae, and Vernon Koekemoer are just a few examples of the many heartwarming campaigns that were made possible through the generosity and kindness of our donors.
It’s truly inspiring to see how people could come together to make a positive impact in the world and help those in need.
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 R370 Million.
300 000+ donors have supported over 30 000+ heroes like you through their medical treatment, 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.
Here are a few inspiring stories of impact made possible through kind support.
Nkosikho’s good deed
When Monet van Deventer stopped at a petrol station in Cape Town and realised she had forgotten her bank card at home, good samaritan, Nkosikho Mbele, offered to fill her tank with R100 to ensure she got home safely.
To thank him for his kind deed, she set up a campaign with a fundraising target of R100 000 that soon gained support from over 2500 donors, raising over R500 000 in total.
Saving Aaron
Aaron Lipschitz(5) 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.
With no cure for Aaron’s condition, the only way for him to overcome his recurrent infections, was to have a bone marrow transplant which was made possible in August 2018 with the support of generous donors.
To date, over R1.6 Million has been raised to support Aaron’s medical treatment on BackaBuddy.
Eco-warrior, Romario Valentine
Romario Valentine(11) is a young eco-warrior from Umhlanga, Durban, who has dedicated his last two birthdays to raise funds to support his favourite bird park, plant trees and build an aviary.
Focused on saving our environment, Romario’s efforts have garnered international attention, and he has been featured by 50/50, National Geographic Kids, Global Citizen and has even appeared on a panel with The United Nations!
When Naledi Thahanyanewas 4-years-old, she was in urgent need of surgery after it was discovered that she had a heart defeat.
Without the funds to cover Naledi’s medical needs, the children’s home in which she lives, reached out for support. With an outpouring of love and support, over R260 000 was raised to save her life.
In the wake of the Knysna Fires in June 2017, Former Miss South Africa, Demi Leigh Nel Peterslaunched a campaign on BackaBuddy to help rebuild her hometown after fires raged through the Garden Route.
Urging South Africans to support her cause for the Sedgefield Lions Club, over R820 000 was raised, exceeding the initial target of R500 000 to provide supplies for the families that lost their homes and livelihoods in the blaze.
Need inspiration?
Read more of our impact stories by clicking below.
Coach Takudzwa ‘TK’ Muzadzi (31) from Zimbabwe, a beloved coach at Busy Ballers, was sadly mugged at gunpoint while in Sunningdale, Blouberg, on 29 August 2022.
Hearing the news, Catherine Du Plooy, BackaBuddy COO, and Founder of charity e-commerce site, Gift Horse (launching soon), set up a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy with a humble target of R5000.
“TK was understandably quite upset and shaken up by the whole incident. And I knew I had to do something to help him. It’s so unfortunate that crimes like these continue to take place in our beautiful country.” – says Catherine
To Catherine’s surprise, the campaign to help replace TK’s wallet, his bag and a few personal items he lost as a result of the jarring incident, exceeded its target, raising R5937 in less than 24-hours!
“Watching the barometer spillover really warmed my heart. I am happy that TK knows that his community is here for him and that we love him dearly!” says Catherine
“My son, Daniel and nephews Jamie and Cristian joined Busy Ballers more than 3 years ago. To say that the boys love Busy Ballers and the wonderful TK would be an understatement! He manages to include everyone in the class and his method of coaching is soft yet respectful. How he gets all the kids to listen is beyond me!” -says Catherine
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 R351 Million.
From a young age, Ethan Palagangwe (11), a talented singer from Mitchells Plain, Cape Town has been drawn to music.
Inspired by his songstress mom, he could often be heard around the house, singing songs by his favourite musicians such as Chris Brown, Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber.
“Ethan started singing around the house at the age of 8. When he started singing for our friends and family at gatherings, we realized that he has a God given talent that we needed to nurture.” says Ethan’s mom, Candice.
The Palagangwe family from left are Cade, Kagisho, Ethan, Candice and Kaycee. Picture: Plainsman
When Ethan’s parents saw that the prestigious Drakensberg Boys Choir School in Kwa-Zulu Natal was having an open call to auditions, they signed him up, in hopes that he would be given a once in a lifetime opportunity to sharpen his singing skills and receive a world-class education.
Performing one of his favourite songs, “Ben”, by Michael Jackson, Ethan soaked up the spotlight and was one of only 30 students, out of 1600, to receive an acceptance letter to enrol at the private school.
Unable to cover the cost of his schooling, which amounts to approximately R 175 000 for his first year, Ethan’s parents launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy that has thus far raised over R113 000.
With support from 48 donors both locally and internationally, Ethan has been able to attend the prestigious Drakensberg Boys Choir School in KZN and has been excelling in his studies.
“Being accepted at the school has also driven him in aiming high and to excel in all the academic and social activities that are being offered at the school. I am pleased to say that despite all the challenges he and his parents have faced, he still gives his best to achieve academic excellence for himself.”
Unfortunately due to the unforeseen Covid-19 pandemic, many of the individuals and businesses that pledged to contribute to Ethan’s education have experienced financial hardship, leaving Ethan’s family with over R53 000 in outstanding school fees.
Unable to come up with the funds, Ethan will, unfortunately, need to return home to Cape Town and put his dreams of becoming a singer on hold.
“We as a family have witnessed Ethan’s personal development, education, and musical growth to be phenomenal, and we would not want to deprive him of this chance. Since it is mid-year and amid the pandemic, many schools are restricting their enrollment, so we are in a tough position to secure Ethan a new school.”
Update about Ethan’s progress:
Ethan is currently in his second year at the world renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir School. He is in Grade 6 and continues to flourish in this fast paced environment, where hard work, talent, discipline and team work culminate to create magic in the form of the most beautiful music. He worked hard to complete the gruelling New Boy Programme and earned his “Concert Status” in August last year.
Ethan has proven to be a true Drakie, his energy and passion makes him a pleasure to watch perform, his face lights up the stage and his natural rhythm makes you want to jump up and dance. He has fully entrenched himself in all the school has to offer, seizing every opportunity, be it academically, in the sporting arena or in the music field. Ethan is thriving at the school and loves to be surrounded by the majestic mountains, he loves hiking, swimming in the rivers and mountain biking – on the bike he was gifted by a fellow pupil.
Ethan comes from a very humble background, his Father Kagiso, works in law enforcement and his Mother, Candace works as a teachers aid. His hard working parents want the best for their son, the sacrifice they make to ensure that Ethan is given every opportunity to achieve his full potential is enormous. They need the continued financial support to ensure that Ethan is able to stay at the school that is recognised as a National Treasure.
Ethan successfully auditioned to be in the Schools latest music video “Butter”. “Butter” was released on the 15 July and was filmed in Umhlanga, Ethan was given a solo part and viewers got to see some of his slick dance moves!
As a fellow parent at the school, we would love to help the Palagangwe family. Any financial assistance you are able to offer this young man would be greatly appreciated.” – says Megan Dittberner
*As per the campaign creator’s request, funds raised will be paid directly to the school*
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 R260 Million.
Pictured above: Robin Lewis and his wife, Jolandie, in hospital following his stem cell transplant in 2018. Robin was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia, a genetic DNA repair disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid tumors in the body.
Picture above: On the right is their one-of-a-kind motorhome, dubbed “Betsy”, that will provide transport and accommodation for the pair on their 3 650-day journey.
