by Tessa Van Rensberg | Feb 5, 2026 | Medical Fundraising
Cape Town, South Africa — Donnel, a 19-year-old from Cape Town, has lived with hydrocephalus since birth, a condition that has left him unable to walk and dependent on full-time care. As he enters adulthood, the physical and practical demands of managing his condition have increased significantly.
In response, his family has launched a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for essential mobility equipment, daily medical and hygiene supplies, and safe transport — support that is now critical to maintaining his health, dignity, and quality of life.
A Family Focused on Care
Donnel’s life has been shaped by ongoing medical intervention and constant care. He has undergone six major surgeries and survived a stroke, resulting in lasting physical limitations. He requires assistance with all daily activities, along with ongoing management of chronic health conditions, including severe skin allergies and the risk of seizures.
Since the age of four, Donnel has been cared for solely by his mother, following the death of his father from cancer. For the past 15 years, she has managed every aspect of his wellbeing, becoming his full-time caregiver.
Her responsibilities are continuous and demanding. She provides 24-hour supervision, manages medical routines and hygiene needs, and performs all physical lifting and transfers, as Donnel cannot walk independently. As he has grown into a young adult, these tasks have become increasingly strenuous.
Despite these pressures, Donnel’s outlook remains a source of strength within the household. His family describes him as disciplined, calm, and quietly resilient. During health setbacks, including seizures, it is often his composure that sustains his mother.
“Donnel doesn’t complain,” his family explains. “Even in difficult moments, his attitude gives his mother the strength to continue.”
One of the ways Donnel expresses determination is through music. Despite poor eyesight and limited use of one hand, he finds joy and purpose in singing. Music offers an emotional outlet and a sense of identity beyond his physical limitations.
Turning to Community Support
As Donnel has transitioned into adulthood, his care needs have reached a critical point. His physical size has made hospital visits, daily transfers, and transport increasingly difficult to manage alone. The strain of lifting and moving him has resulted in his mother developing severe, chronic back pain.
At the same time, the cost of essential daily supplies — including adult nappies and medicated creams required for his skin condition — has continued to rise. For a single caregiver, these combined pressures have become unsustainable.
Faced with these realities, the family made the decision to seek community support by launching a verified BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign.
Since launching three days ago, the response has been encouraging. More than R14,000 has been raised, reaching 70% of the R20,000 goal, through contributions from 15 individual donors. While this support has provided momentum, the family still needs assistance to reach the full amount required.
“This campaign is about ensuring Donnel has the care and dignity he deserves,” says campaign organiser Rory Little. “It’s also about acknowledging that this journey can’t be carried alone anymore.”
The public response has offered encouragement after years of managing Donnel’s care privately, highlighting the impact of collective support.
“Having the right equipment would be life-changing,” the family explains. “It would reduce the risk of injury, protect his mother’s health, and allow Donnel to live with greater comfort and stability.”
To support Donnel, visit the BackaBuddy campaign here:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/helping-donnel-access-the-care-he-deserves
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Feb 2, 2026 | Medical Fundraising
Chánterie van Rensburg, a 12-year-old Grade 7 learner and Head Girl from Cape Town, is undergoing intensive medical treatment after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer. This sudden turn of events has dramatically altered her young life. As she focuses on treatment and recovery, a close family friend has turned to crowdfunding, and a growing community is rallying behind her to help support the journey ahead.
What was meant to be a normal December family holiday took an unexpected turn when Chánterie experienced sudden numbness in her legs. She was admitted to hospital on 6 January 2026, where an MRI scan revealed a growth on her spine. Doctors performed a four-hour operation shortly after her admission.
Further tests brought devastating news. Chánterie was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer that mainly affects children and adolescents. A PET scan later confirmed that the cancer had spread, and she had to begin intensive chemotherapy without delay.
A young leader with unwavering resolve
Despite the shock of her diagnosis, Chánterie’s response has been marked by resilience and determination. Known at school for her leadership, academic commitment, and involvement in sport and cultural activities, she has approached her treatment with the same strength she shows in her role as Head Girl.
After her oncologist explained the diagnosis and treatment plan, Chánterie responded with quiet resolve.
“We are fighting this bug,” she said.
Her faith and outlook have been a source of strength for her family during the most difficult moments. Recalling a conversation during the early days of her diagnosis, her mother shared: “During a very early morning conversation, filled with tears, she said, ‘Mommy, Jesus wants to use me. He chose me.’ Her faith and acceptance showed strength far beyond her years.”
Following spinal surgery, Chánterie has had to relearn basic movements, including sitting, standing, and walking. Each day involves careful rehabilitation, patience, and persistence as she works toward regaining her independence while continuing cancer treatment.
Time, treatment, and the need for support
For her parents, Divan and Clarissa van Rensburg, the uncertainty surrounding her recovery has been one of the hardest aspects of the journey. “Watching your child want so badly to return to her normal life, while knowing her immune system is compromised, is incredibly hard,” they said.
Returning to school remains Chánterie’s greatest motivation. She hopes to reconnect with her classmates, resume learning, and once again be part of the school community that gives her purpose and joy.
A community responds with generosity
To help cover the growing costs associated with medical care, treatment, and recovery, a close friend of the Van Rensburg family launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy titled Let’s FIGHT this ‘gogga’ for Chánterie. The campaign has allowed the family to focus on her care while drawing support from a wide network of donors.
In just 12 days, the BackaBuddy campaign raised R447 000, reaching 56% of its R800,000 goal, with 461 individual donors contributing. Support has come from Chánterie’s school, neighbouring schools, and individuals across South Africa, Switzerland, US, Scotland, UK, Saudi and Australia who have shared messages of encouragement, prayer, and solidarity.
“The prayers, love, and support have carried us through these weeks in ways we cannot fully describe,” her parents shared. “We are deeply grateful.”
To support Chánterie van Rensburg, visit her BackaBuddy campaign link here:
https://backabuddy.co.za/campaign/lets-fight-this-gogga-for-chnterie
by Community | May 8, 2024 | Medical Fundraising
At the tender age of 11, Liam Pretorius from Pretoria East in Johannesburg found his vibrant life taking a drastic turn. Once known for his robust health and lively demeanour, Liam, affectionately dubbed “my Boerboel puppy” by his mother Amelia Pretorius, enjoyed an idyllic existence on a farm. There, he tended to his two beloved horses with care, diligently grooming them and maintaining their stables.
“I was always thinking I am so blessed to have such a healthy and happy child,” Amelia told the Pretoria Rekord.
Pictured above: 11-year-old Liam Pretorius (Image Credits: Pretoria Rekord)
However, in 2022, Liam’s world was shaken by the onset of symptoms signalling a grave illness, ultimately diagnosed as autoimmune ulcerative colitis. This condition, characterised by abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, and presence of blood and mucus in the stool, marked the beginning of a challenging journey for young Liam.
“This disease is very rare, especially in children and at his age,” said Pretorius.
Adding to the complexity of his condition, Liam was also diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a condition where the bile ducts within and outside the liver undergo inflammation and scarring, leading to obstruction and damage. Facing the dire consequences of liver dysfunction, Liam’s only hope for survival lies in a liver transplant.
“It is very heartbreaking to see my once very active child being bedridden and having to sleep most of the time,” said Pretorius.
Pictured above: Liam and his mum Amelia Pretorius
Once an avid horse rider and cycling enthusiast, Liam was forced to relinquish these passions as his health rapidly deteriorated, succumbing to complications such as rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune hepatitis, and jaundice.
The toll on Liam’s academic and social life has been profound. With just four days spent in school last February, the majority of his time is now dedicated to medical care at the Donald Gordon Medical Centre’s transplant unit and a clinic in Midrand.
Despite the adversity, Liam persists in his studies, maintaining a commendable academic performance in Grade 7. Yet, his daily existence is marred by relentless pain from rheumatoid arthritis and widespread inflammation.
“It is so difficult to see someone so young being so ill,” said Pretorius.
The Pretorius family’s lifestyle has been upended by Liam’s illness, necessitating significant adjustments. Liam, now a vegetarian, adheres to a strict diet of lactose-free dairy and gluten-free fare to manage his condition.
Pictured above: Liam enjoying his time at the horse stables
Moreover, stringent precautions are in place to protect Liam from airborne illnesses, mandating the use of masks and hand sanitizers due to his compromised immunity.
“We are trying everything just to cope and to get by until a liver becomes available,” said Pretorius.
For Liam and his family, the agonising wait for a suitable liver donor commenced long ago, initially projected to span a decade. However, due to the rapid progression of his illness, this timeline has been drastically shortened to 12 to 18 months.
“His condition has deteriorated faster than expected.” We tried everything to slow the illness down. At present he is on biologicals as a treatment as because of his liver condition, he is unable to even take a pain pill.” said Pretorius.
The financial burden of Liam’s ongoing treatment and eventual transplant looms large, with estimates from the Donald Gordon Transplant Unit indicating a requirement of at least R800,000. In an effort to alleviate this strain, Liam’s mother has launched a BackaBuddy campaign to rally support for her son’s medical journey.
Pictured above: Liam at the hospital for his treatment
“We’ve only raised R3 500 so far,” said Pretorius. She has a full-time job and it has become a challenge to make ends meet.
“I want to do everything I can to ensure my son has the best options available so he lives his best life for as long as possible,” said Pretorius.
Ever since Liam started his biological treatment in February, his immune system has been weakened, preventing him from attending classes at his usual school centre.
“Most of the time, he only has his computer tablet as a companion as he cannot be exposed to germs,” explained Pretorius.
To help her son fight against this battle and alleviate their financial burden, Amelia recently started a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign.
“I will be so grateful to anyone who would be able to help me help my son use the one option, a liver transplant, for his incurable disease,” said Pretorius.
SOURCE: PRETORIA REKORD
by Community | Apr 30, 2024 | Medical Fundraising
Francois Boshoff, a 21-year-old employee at his family owned business Timber and Spec from Pietermaritzburg in Kwa-Zulu Natal, faced an unexpected challenge which tested his resilience and altered the course of his life in the blink of an eye. What started out as a peaceful holiday outing at Buffelspoort Dam in the North West for the Boshoff family turned into a nightmare on the morning of 1 April 2024 when an engine fire engulfed their boat due to a faulty fuel pipe which broke, leaking fuel into the hull of the boat and causing the fire to ignite when the boat was started, leaving Francois with severe second-degree burns.
Pictured above: 21-year-old Francois Boshoff driving their family boat before the the accident
“We are long-standing club members at the Buffelspoort Boat Club. We go to the club for almost every holiday when the weather is good, except in winter. The boat had its yearly COF (certificate of fitness) done the week before Easter. The incident happened on Easter Monday. The day before the incident, the “safety officer” had done his inspection of the boat where everything was compliant. We had refurbished the boat, working on it ourselves for over 2 years from 2020. It’s a beautiful 1980’s American Skier which we inherited from my grandpa before he passed so it’s a very sentimental boat. The boat was in full use from December 2022 and we had been using it the entire Easter holiday. This was such a freak accident that literally happened on the last morning of the holiday.” says Francois’ sister Charllene.
Francois, along with his parents David (58) and Colleen-Anne (52), was fortunate to escape, but the physical toll this incident had on Francois was profound. His left arm and left leg bore the brunt of the flames, along with the back of his right leg. The road to recovery seemed daunting, but with the help of the incredible medical team at Netcare Milpark Hospital, Francois began his journey toward healing.
Pictured above: The Boshoff family on their boat at Buffelspoort. From left Francois, David, Colleen-Anne, and Charllene
“My dad doesn’t show much emotion when it comes to this stuff. But he became very solemn, so we know he was concerned. My mom was in some shock and felt anxious. He went into the theatre literally within 2 hours of being at the hospital, so it happened very quickly.” Charllene tells us.
“I felt anxious because he doesn’t like doctors in general and I couldn’t be there to support him as I was already on the way back to the dam to pack up. I was in shock at everything that happened so quickly. But we knew he would be receiving the best possible treatment.” says mum Colleen-Anne.
However, the burden of medical expenses loomed large over their family. Without Francois having any medical aid, his family has to pay for his medical costs out of pocket. From intensive care to multiple surgical procedures, the expenses accumulated rapidly, stretching their resources thin.
Pictured above: Francois with mum Colleen-Anne in the ICU burn unit at Milpark Hospital on Easter Monday
To lighten the family’s financial strain and to help cover the costs of Francois’ medical expenses his sister Charllene (24) started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised more than R68 000 of their R240 000 goal with the help of 41 incredible donors.
“These funds would truly help us to not feel overwhelmed with the finances of the incident. But rather focus on the healing, both emotionally and physically. As mentioned in the BackaBuddy campaign text, Francois is not on medical aid, so we are paying for his treatment out of pocket and this has really become an expensive incident. But we could not be more grateful to the medical team that helped him. They really were extremely professional and took the best possible care of him. Francois would not be back on his feet and getting ready to head off on his American adventure if it weren’t for the outstanding medical team. The funds really would be such a relief for the family. We are all doing what we can and giving every penny we make to these expenses and the donations would really just allow us a breath of fresh air in that we are able to move forward from the incident and not be overwhelmed with the bills constantly hanging over us each month.” says Charllene.
The outpouring of support from their community has been nothing short of remarkable. Friends, family, and even strangers have rallied around them, offering words of encouragement and generous contributions to aid in Francois’ recovery. Their kindness has been a ray of light during this trying time, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
Pictured above: The Boshoff family enjoying a day out on their boat
“Genuinely thank you. You have no idea how much this helps me and my family. Life has been tough for everyone lately, but its acts of kindness in moments of unprecedented times like this that really show there is good in the world. God really is good.” Francois tells us.
As Francois continues his recovery journey, each day brings new milestones and triumphs. His resilience and determination serve as a source of inspiration to them all, propelling him forward in his healing process. Despite the ongoing challenges, his spirits remain high, buoyed by the love and support that surround him.
“Things happen. We can’t live in fear or regret. We, as a family, and I’m sure many others out there, have had it rough lately. But you need to move forward and just do what you can.” says Francois.
Update: As of April 4th, Francois has made significant progress in his recovery journey. He has been moved out of intensive care and into a general ward, marking a positive step forward. Tomorrow, he will undergo another surgical procedure to assess his skin graft and further clean his burn wounds. Despite the ongoing challenges, Francois remains in good spirits and hopes to be discharged soon.
Pictured above: Francois’ first night at home after being in the hospital
“Francois was relieved to be out of the ICU. He is not a fan of hospitals, so he knew this was closer to him being able to go home. And then especially with his job in the USA lined up, he was worried he wouldn’t be healed in time. So, moving into the general ward was a step in the right direction.” explains Charllene.
Once again, they extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported them on this journey. The kindness has made a world of difference, and they are forever grateful for the unwavering support.
by Community | Apr 25, 2024 | Medical Fundraising
Ruan Weideman, a vibrant 16-year-old grade 11 student from Tzaneen, Limpopo, attending Ben Vorster High School with dreams as big as his heart, was hit hard with life changing news on February 1st, 2024. What started as a routine dentist visit revealed a nightmare lurking within his upper jaw—a rare and aggressive tumour, threatening not only his health but his very future. In the blink of an eye, Ruan’s life took an unexpected turn, plunging him into a whirlwind of shock and fear.
‘Ruan is a child who has an incredibly strong spirit and protective nature. He is admired for his determination and kindness and has a deep love for animals and others. His caring heart makes everyone feel special just to be near him. He is extremely calm and rational. Although he is an introvert, he does love spending lots of quality time with family and friends. He is a joy and comfort to all, respectful, and has impeccable manners!’ says Ruan’s mum, Nadine
Pictured above: 16-year-old Ruan Weideman
As one half of identical twins, Ruan has always been an extraordinary young man—bright, hardworking, and filled with an infectious zest for life. But now, his world has been turned upside down by the relentless growth of an Odontogenic Myxoma, a non-malignant tumour wreaking havoc in his upper jaw. This insidious growth is not only destroying tissue but also creeping dangerously close to vital structures, including his brain.
‘The tumour is growing aggressively faster than expected and has now burst through into Ruan’s mouth. It causes light bleeding which causes nausea. The tumour is shedding into his mouth, and he has small sores and blisters inside his mouth which causes pain and discomfort. The part of the tumour that is growing laterally inside his right nostril, gets irritated and he struggles with breathing and sinus-like symptoms. He also finds it difficult to eat. The right side of his face is slightly distended and he struggles to concentrate for long periods of time and gets headaches frequently.’ explains Nadine
Pictured above: Ruan with his mum Nadine and his twin Erard
With each passing day, the tumour’s relentless expansion brings forth new complications, raising the stakes for Ruan’s treatment and recovery. Specialists emphasise the urgency of specialised surgery to halt its progression and safeguard his future. However, this lifeline comes at an exorbitant cost, one that weighs heavily on a family already burdened by tragedy.
Ruan’s family, led by a single mother of three, has already weathered the storm of loss when Ruan and his twin brother Erard were just nine years old, their dad was suddenly taken from them. Now, faced with the looming spectre of this rare tumour, they find themselves grappling with the daunting reality of medical expenses they simply cannot afford.
‘When Ruan was diagnosed it felt as if my whole world was about to collapse and I could not help but feel extremely sad and shocked for what was happening to my son. I was in total disbelief! How could this happen to someone so undeserving? I felt helpless and alone, scared of losing him and unsure of what I could do to help. I was not prepared to lose another loved one! But now I feel that God has sent an army of angels along our way, strengthened our support system and guided us along the way. We have courage. We have strength. We have hope!’ Nadine tell us.
The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but Ruan refuses to let fear dictate his fate. He dreams of a future where he can pursue his passions and aspirations, but time is not on his side. Urgent action is needed to raise the necessary funds for his specialised surgery and hospitalisation, including the expertise of surgeons and the crucial support of mental health professionals.
Pictured above: Ruan Weideman
‘All Ruan wants is to be tumour free! To be able to eat properly, speak normally, to one day have a perfect smile and teeth. To be healthy again, to be able to go to the gym again and to visit his friends on his (imaginary) motorbike!’ says Nadine
To help alleviate the burdens of the looming medical bills, Ruan’s family has started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised over R74 000 of their R900 000 goal with the help of 55 incredible donors.
The money raised will help Ruan get the life saving operation he desperately needs. The hope of Mone and her family is to raise enough money so that Ruan’s future medical needs are taken care of as he will need to be monitored for tumour recurrence, statistically this tumour has a 30% recurrence. Frequent amendments to his obturator, scans, speech therapy and reconstructive surgery, and more medical needs are also included.
‘Ruan is extremely grateful for all the help and he is blown away by how much people care for those who truly need it. He is looking to the future with hope and positivity and wants to become a Dentist one day.’ says Nadine
by Simbulele Jezile | Mar 20, 2024 | Medical Fundraising
One-year-old Aria Payton Botha, a little warrior from the South Coast of Durban, KwaZulu Natal, is battling severe hearing loss in both ears and could potentially receive the gift of sound for the first time through a cochlear implant in the next three months. With the unwavering support of her family and community, her parents aim to raise funds for this life-changing operation through a BackaBuddy campaign.
Aria’s mother, Meghan (35), describes her as a fiery, independent, and lively little girl, whose spirit shines brightly even in the face of challenges. “Nothing stops this little girl,” Meghan beams with pride, “she is the epitome of an absolute warrior princess.”
Despite her hearing impairment, Aria finds joy in simple pleasures like car rides and playing outdoors. Her infectious spirit inspires hope and strength in those around her.
Caption Image: Baby Aria at 12 Months Old
Aria’s arrival was not without its trials. After experiencing the heartbreak of two back-to-back miscarriages, Meghan and her husband Nick (39) found renewed hope when they learned of Aria’s impending arrival. Aria, as Meghan fondly recalls, brought a sense of joy and anticipation that filled their hearts with newfound hope.
But joy turned to concern when, shortly after her birth, it became evident that Aria was facing hearing impairment. Despite the initial setbacks and inconclusive test results, Meghan’s maternal instinct urged her to seek answers and solutions for her daughter’s well-being.
After consulting with an ENT specialist, it was confirmed that Aria had severe hearing loss in both ears, a diagnosis that shattered Meghan’s heart. However, her resolve remained unbroken as she vowed to do whatever it takes to ensure Aria’s quality of life.
Caption Image: Baby Aria at 11-months-old
The journey to explore treatment options led Meghan and her family down a path filled with uncertainty but also with unwavering determination.
“I feel our family has become closed and we have seen sides to our boys that we didn’t even know existed. My eldest (17) came home the other day and told me that he had spoken to his principal to see if their school could do a fundraiser because we absolutely have to get Aria her implants … I teared up right there!” says Meghan.
In response to the urgent need for medical assistance, Meghan initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. With a fundraising target of R200,000 to cover surgery, implants, and therapy appointments, the community rallies behind Aria’s by raising over R20 000 thus far from 24 donors.
Meghan reflects on the overwhelming response from their community, saying, “To say that we have been overwhelmed by the love and support is an understatement.”
The campaign, fueled by compassion and generosity, has garnered support from far and wide, bringing them closer to their fundraising target with each passing day. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, Meghan remains grateful for every donation, every share, and every word of encouragement.
“I could absolutely never express in words the amount of gratitude that I have for everyone who has helped in some way,” she says tearfully, “if I ever had the money available to pay it forward, I could assure you that another child would receive their cochlear implants just like Aria is going to.”
Caption Image: Baby Aria at 13 months old
Update on her progress:
On the 11th of March 2024, Aria underwent a significant milestone in her journey toward hearing restoration. Accompanied by her family, she visited
the audiologist to have her hearing aids fitted. As the devices were turned on, Aria’s reaction was immediate and emotional, shedding tears in response to the unfamiliar sensation. The audiologist noted that while this reaction does not conclusively indicate Aria’s ability to hear, it suggests sensitivity to vibrations in her ears.
However, this reaction also provides encouraging insights into Aria’s condition. The audiologist remarked that her response indicates the absence of damage to her cochlea or nerves, a crucial factor for potential candidacy for Cochlear implants. This news brings relief to Aria’s family, as it opens up possibilities for her future treatment.
@aiding_aria Our little Aria was fitted with hearing aids today. Not all reactions are smiles and joy sometimes the feeling is overwhelmed and scared 💔 What we know from this visit is that her nerves are in tact and her cochlear is functions. We dont know what sound she is hearing and the depth of the sound, it may even just be vibrations. Check in with the audiologist in 2 weeks ❤️❤️
♬ original sound - Aria | hearing Journey
To support Aria, visit her BackaBuddy campaign link here:
Follow Aria’s journey on her Tiktok:
