From Fish Hoek High to Ireland: Liam Coetzee’s Rugby Journey

From Fish Hoek High to Ireland: Liam Coetzee’s Rugby Journey

by | Apr 30, 2024 | Campaign, Featured

Liam Coetzee a 18-year-old matric student at Fish Hoek High School in Cape Town, is embarking on a journey from the local rugby fields in South Africa to the international stages in Ireland where he will not only shine bright for his skills but also for his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the game. 

Pictured above: 18-year-old aspiring rugby player Liam Coetzee

“Liam has a good sense of humour and is a great leader. He is very self motivated and  determined and once he has set his mind to do something he doesn’t give up. He inspires his peers and is always pushing hard for the next goal.” says Liam’s proud mum Gail.

Born and raised in the heart of South Africa, Liam’s love for rugby ignited when he was just 6-years-old while watching rugby with his dad who is a big fan of the sport. From the moment he first held a rugby ball in primary school, he knew that this sport would be his calling. Over the years, his dedication and determination transformed him into a formidable player, earning him recognition both on and off the field.

At Fish Hoek High School, Liam’s leadership qualities were evident as he was elected head student and appointed captain of the u19 1st team rugby in 2024. His peers and coaches alike admired his unwavering work ethic, persistence, and self-motivation, traits that not only propelled his own performance but also inspired those around him.

Pictured above: Liam with his rugby squad

“Rugby is a true source of happiness where I can develop physically and mentally. It’s an escape from the stress of school and life in general all while being a part of a brotherhood that plays for something bigger than any one player. A career in rugby would be incredible, I’m planning on studying engineering next year but would love to keep playing and maybe go pro.” says Liam

In addition to his achievements in rugby, Liam excelled academically, earning full colours for school academics and the prestigious Springbok Scout award. His ability to balance sporting excellence with academic success speaks volumes about his character and determination to excel in all aspects of life.

Pictured above: Liam with his sister Josie

But Liam’s journey doesn’t stop at the school gates or within the local league. His talent and hard work have caught the attention of scouts beyond South Africa’s borders. Currently, he is attending trials for the Western Province (WP) u19 provincial side, aiming to represent his province at the highest level.

However, the pinnacle of Liam’s rugby journey lies in an opportunity that transcends borders and continents—the Rhino Rugby Touring side. Selected to be a part of this elite squad, Liam will be travelling to Ireland this September to compete alongside international teams, train with top youth players and coaches, and immerse himself in the rich history of rugby.

“This opportunity truly means the world to me, it’s the result of years of passion and belief. Not only from me but from my family, teammates and community. It’s an opportunity to see the sport I love from a whole new perspective.” Liam tells us.

Pictured above: Liam with the Fish Hoek u19 A first team

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is not just about playing the game; it’s about experiencing the camaraderie of international competition, learning from the best in the world, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. For Liam, it’s a dream come true, a chance to represent his country on foreign soil and showcase his talent on a global stage.

However, realising this dream comes with its challenges. The financial burden of such a trip is significant, especially on short notice. Which is why Liam and his family has started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already managed to raise over R27 000 of their R50 000 goal with the help of 17 amazing donors. 

“I am incredibly grateful for each donation and honestly overwhelmed by the timely support I’ve received. A massive thanks to all for believing in me, your generosity is inspiring and I promise to make the most of it.” says Liam.

Support Liam’s campaign here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/liams-rugby-tour-to-ireland

 

Micheal and Bailey: Balcony Accident Strengthens Bond Between Rescue Cat and Dog

Micheal and Bailey: Balcony Accident Strengthens Bond Between Rescue Cat and Dog

by | Jan 24, 2024 | Impact

Newlyweds Amber Jempson, a 24-year-old Administrative Clerk, and her partner Calvin, a 25-year-old skipper from Sunningdale, Cape Town, are devoted fur-parents to Micheal, a rescue cat, and Bailey, their rescue dachshund. The remarkable and unlikely bond between Micheal and Bailey, celebrated on their Instagram page, has captured the hearts of their humble following.

Furry Instagram celebrities and best friends, Micheal and Bailey

However, tragedy struck on January 2nd when Micheal, just one-year-old, accidentally fell from the fourth floor of their apartment building. This unfortunate incident left Micheal with fractures in both of his legs, necessitating urgent medical attention.

Amber recounted the heartbreaking details of the accident, saying, “We were on the balcony for our morning sun and coffee, we had mesh up, but the estate we live in made everyone remove it due to aesthetic reasons. I looked away for a split second, and something caught Micheal’s attention on the little ledge. I did not want to scare him, so I called him back inside because I thought if he got safely out there, he would be able to bring himself safely in. He was doing great until he got his hips stuck and panicked, and in a normal cat reaction, he tried to reverse. He pushed too quickly, and I started running towards him, but I wasn’t able to grab him in time.”

Micheal and Bailey with their fur-parent, Amber

While insurance did provide some coverage, the damage caused by the fall was extensive. Amber recalled, “Micheal was awake and crying. Thankfully, there was no blood, but that cry will stay with me forever! I could see his front paw was broken, but had no idea the back had snapped too.”

The estimated expenses included R2,500 for an emergency vet visit, over R40,000 for surgical procedures, and more than R8,000 for post-operative care.

Amber, feeling helpless but resolute in her determination to save Micheal, launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. The campaign aimed to raise R65,000 to cover the hefty medical bills. So far, it has garnered tremendous support, with 10 generous donors contributing over R17 400 to help Michael on his road to recovery.

Micheal underwent a successful seven-hour surgery at Sunset Veterinary Clinic, where screws and wires were expertly placed to mend his broken bones. The joy of his family, and especially Bailey (exuberantly wagging her tail), was immeasurable when Micheal finally returned home.

 

Micheal laying in his crate after his fall from the balcony

The pair, accustomed to doing everything together, is now temporarily separated by a crate as Micheal undergoes a six-week recovery process.

Amber shared the heartwarming details of their friendship, saying, “They love to play fight on the couch and go on beautiful walks together!”

The response from the Cape Town community has been nothing short of heartwarming. Friends and complete strangers, moved by the unlikely friendship between Micheal and Bailey, have stepped up to donate and send their good wishes. Amber and Calvin have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.

Amber shared her gratitude, saying, “We thought we were going to lose our beautiful boy. We were so overcome with emotions, but to see strangers who have never even met Micheal donating and sending good wishes, it was just so heartwarming.”

 

Micheal and Bailey enjoying a day at the beach

Micheal‘s journey began when Amber and Calvin were on a trip to KZN (South Coast) for their wedding. Amber shared the heartwarming story, saying, “My husband and myself had made the journey back to KZN for our wedding, and on the way down, my mother sent us a few photos of kittens. The mother had been rescued, and she had given birth to six beautiful kittens who were looking for homes. We saw the photo of Micheal, and it was instant love at first sight! He had the most beautiful blue eyes and white whiskers. We bought all the supplies needed and drove back to Cape Town as a family of 3.”

Currently, Micheal is on the mend, having completed two of his eight weeks in the crate. His bandages and stitches have been removed, and he’s yearning for cuddles and attention. While he can walk, his recovery is ongoing as his legs are still a bit stiff.

In about 7 months, Micheal will have to have another operation to remove the screws and plates, as he is still growing, and if he doesn’t have the operation, it will affect his ability to walk.

Looking ahead, Amber and Calvin are determined to move to a safer home for Micheal and Bailey, away from the dangers of a high-rise apartment. They are actively searching for a new home where Micheal and Bailey can enjoy a secure and happy life together.

 

To contribute to Micheal’s ongoing recovery, consider donating to his BackaBuddy campaign: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/amber-van-broekhuizen-5800058015425599212

 

For Updates: Micheal and Bailey’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/michealandbailey/

FEEL GOOD | Runner takes on Comrades Marathon barefoot to build homeless shelter in Pietermaritzburg

FEEL GOOD | Runner takes on Comrades Marathon barefoot to build homeless shelter in Pietermaritzburg

by | Aug 24, 2022 | Campaign, Featured

Picture above: Graham Wells from Facebook Gallery

Graham Wells (45) from Pelham in Pietermaritzburg, will take on his 8th Comrades Marathon on 28 August 2022.

Running barefoot from Pietermaritzburg to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, Graham has decided to dedicate his 90km challenge to the plight of the growing homeless population in Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

“I’m a firm believer that running medals don’t mean anything unless you have made a difference for someone else. ” – says Graham

Partnering with One Life Foundation, Graham has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy called “Run for a roof”, to raise R250 000 towards the estimated R1 million needed to fund a much-needed homeless shelter in the area.

Graham Wells 

“Whilst out training in the freezing cold mornings, I am always struck by the number of homeless in our city. As we complain about the weather getting colder, imagine what it must get like living on the street, in a park or on a field. These are normal people, like you and I, and for whatever reason, have found themselves in a difficult situation and, consequently, homeless.” – says Graham

Since the launch of his campaign, Graham has raised over R33 000 with kind contributions from 32 donors. Funds raised will not only cover the cost to build the housing structure, but also provide the homeless with the appropriate rehabilitation services to re-build their own lives.

Graham Wells

Having worked in social housing in the United Kingdom, helping the homeless has always been close to Graham’s heart.

“I have a dream to see a safe, friendly, people-centred shelter, in Pietermaritzburg, where people of any race or background can be welcomed and empowered to make something better of themselves. By coming together to fund this project we have an opportunity to change the face of homelessness in our City and restore dignity to those society has left behind. Everyone deserves kindness and a second chance” – says Graham

Support Graham’s campaign by donating here:

https://www.backabuddy.co.za/runforaroof

Alternatively, donate via Snapscan:

https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/runforaroof

 

 

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 R344 Million.

Teacher to translate children’s book on divorce into Afrikaans to heal broken families

Teacher to translate children’s book on divorce into Afrikaans to heal broken families

by | Jun 15, 2021 | Campaign

According to Stats SA, Four in 10 marriages don’t last longer than 10 years.

To help children cope with the emotional challenges and confusion that comes with divorce, Natalie Knox (46) a primary school teacher and a counselor from Cape Town, South Africa, now living in Spain, has penned a resource book called the ‘Mending Chronicles of Liam & Emily.’

The colourful handbook, which has an inspiring Christian message, is filled with advice and activities that give children the tools to navigate and express their feelings when their parents make the difficult decision to separate.

Divorce, Knox says, is a trickier subject than we realise, especially when young children are involved.

“Divorce is so common that I find people tend to think that kids can bounce back easily and will turn out okay.  Sadly, in my experience, kids who aren’t given support and a safe space to process the changes and their emotions tend to carry related issues into their teenage years and adulthood.  These stem potentially from unprocessed emotions and misconceptions kids pick up about themselves and their family during the divorce.  These could look anything like feeling as if the divorce was their fault or they aren’t worth sticking around for.” – says Natalie

Teacher and author, Natalie Knox

Translating into Afrikaans

‘The Mending Chronicles of Liam and Emily’, which is currently only available in English, is already a page turner, having been a finalist at the 14th National Indie Excellence Awards in America.

To fulfil her dream of translating the book into Afrikaans,  to reach and heal more families, Natalie has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy with the help of her friend of over 14 years, Lana Potgieter who lives in Bellville, Cape Town.

 

“Divorce knows no boundaries and happens in every culture and language. Sadly, resources to help and support families and children are not always easily available in other languages besides English.  Books that deal with such personal and sensitive issues are more accessible and effective for the young reader if it’s in their mother tongue.  So I think that The Mending Chronicles is going to be an incredibly helpful handbook for Afrikaans children who have experienced divorce, as well as a great addition to Afrikaans children’s literature.” – says Natalie

Since the launch of the crowdfunding campaign, almost R30 000 has been raised towards the fundraising target of R70 000 which will cover the cost of the translator, editor, proofreader, designer and the first print run of the book.    

“My hope for The Mending Chronicles handbook is that children of divorce can go on a journey with the main characters, Liam and Emily, and work through their own responses to divorce and be equipped to deal with the changes they face.  I am a firm believer in the power of emotional intelligence to help children express themselves effectively so that they can communicate their thoughts and needs and receive the help and support they require.  Spirituality is also part of Liam and Emily’s story, which I hope will be well received by the Afrikaans community. I’m very excited to think that this amazing resource can be made available to Afrikaans children in their own language bringing healing and emotional wellness to the next generation.” – says Natalie

Support this campaign by making a donation on Backabuddy here:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/natalie-knox

 

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 R250 Million.