SPAR hero of the week Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/spar-hero-of-the-week/ Thu, 22 May 2025 16:01:32 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png SPAR hero of the week Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/spar-hero-of-the-week/ 32 32 How Amanda’s Experience with Blindness Is Now Restoring Sight for Many Others https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/amanda-cromhout-restoring-sight-others/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/amanda-cromhout-restoring-sight-others/#respond Mon, 19 May 2025 15:00:23 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=151546

After enduring a severe fungal eye infection that caused temporary blindness, Amanda Cromhout healed and vowed to pursue a cause that would seek to restore the vision of those most...

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After enduring a severe fungal eye infection that caused temporary blindness, Amanda Cromhout healed and vowed to pursue a cause that would seek to restore the vision of those most in need in underserved Eastern Cape communities.

 

spar hero of the week

Cape Town, South Africa (19 May 2025) – It has been over three years since Amanda Cromhout’s life took a scary and devastating turn when she was unexpectedly diagnosed with fusarium keratitis (a serious fungal infection of the cornea), leaving her not just in pain but severely affecting her eyesight too.

“My world changed dramatically for an initial three months of absolute fear, illness and excruciating pain. Then for the following 18 months, I was temporarily blind in my right eye,” Amanda shares in a video.

However, through expert treatment, she was healed and has since made it her personal mission to support the healing of other desperate individuals who, too, find themselves in the dark and in need of restored sight.

“Today I am privileged to see ‘well enough’ out of both eyes and my life is back to an amazing ‘normal’.”

Through her non-profit organisation, Blind Loyalty, founded on the back of her own personal illness, Amanda plays a significant role in the funding of vital cataract and corneal transplant surgeries, especially in underserved communities in the Eastern Cape.

“Every month in the Eastern Cape, there is a surgery day for rapid cataract surgeries, where approximately 25 patients who are either bilaterally blind or blind in one eye get their blindness reversed through funding from Blind Loyalty to Grace Vision,” Amanda explains.

For an elderly grandmother raising young children in her household or a father who works hard as the main breadwinner of his family, unexpected blindness is tragic, to say the least.

As part of her continued efforts to raise awareness and funds for those experiencing curable blindness, Amanda, as well as other running communities around the world, have run various races to support Blind Loyalty’s mission to change the lives of so many people who would otherwise be left blind and suffering.

More recently, Amanda has been training for her ninth Comrades Marathon, which she will be running to reverse blindness.

“I am not confused at all about why I am lining up for my ninth Comrades run on 8 June. To raise funds to reverse blindness,” Amanda reiterates.

She invites the greater public to pledge any amount to Blind Loyalty as she continues her compassionate mission. To make a pledge, visit the fundraising campaign here.


Sources: Amanda Cromhout 
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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“Table Mountain’s Iron Lady” Powerfully Completes 64-Day Climb, Raises A Fortune For Her Heroes! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/table-mountains-iron-lady-powerfully-completes-64-day-climb/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/table-mountains-iron-lady-powerfully-completes-64-day-climb/#respond Tue, 13 May 2025 11:00:30 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=150988

She faced her fear and conquered it 64 times over! Tania Morkel, lovingly called “Table Mountain’s Iron Lady,” has triumphantly completed a breathtaking 64-day challenge, motivated by her recovery from...

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She faced her fear and conquered it 64 times over! Tania Morkel, lovingly called “Table Mountain’s Iron Lady,” has triumphantly completed a breathtaking 64-day challenge, motivated by her recovery from a near-fatal fall.

 

spar hero of the week

Cape Town, South Africa (13 May 2025) – It has been a long and deeply motivated 64-day climb up and down Table Mountain, but the ever-so-brave and remarkably inspiring Tania Morkel has done it!

Lovingly dubbed as “Table Mountain’s Iron Lady”, Tania began her personal challenge to ascend and descend the iconic landmark for 64 days in an effort to raise R64,000. This was her powerful way of celebrating her recovery following a near-fatal fall from the very same mountain in 2023 and giving back to the heroes who saved her life.

With composure and undeterred grit, she has been at it day after day, and she has finally seen her personal mission all the way through.

Yesterday, Tania was joined by the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams, including Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS medics, SANParks – Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) rangers and her family as they started up Platteklip Gorge for the final ascent in her 64 x 64 Challenge.

“Each step back up the mountain was my thank you note to the rescuers who brought me home,” Tania shares.

Her journey of overcoming a near-death experience to living life to the fullest has touched countless lives, and it’s not hard to understand why. More impressive still, Tania surpassed her R64,000 fundraising goal, with funds currently sitting at R110,556; it’s a mind-blowingly thrilling feat, how can you not be inspired?

“I hope these funds help them (WSAR and TMNP) reach the next person in need and keep every hiker a little safer,” Morkel said.

WSAR spokesperson David Nel praised her effort, saying:

“Tania’s determination on the mountain and her generosity off it embody the true spirit of volunteerism – a way of giving back to the community and making a positive impact on others.

“The generous support for her fundraising campaign will help to ensure that our teams continue to provide a world class rescue service to the outdoor communities of the Western Cape,” Nel said.

The heroic EMS paramedic who treated Tania after her fall in 2023 presented her with a bouquet of Proteas and Cape florals as she completed her last ascent, recognising her incredible journey and the spirit of gratitude that inspired it.

Tania, you didn’t just achieve a great thing, but you touched lives and are a true hero to us all!


Sources: Wilderness Search and Rescue
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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Dad with Stage 4 Cancer Runs Marathon, Ignites Hope and Raises R36k For Little Warriors! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/dad-with-stage-4-cancer-runs-marathon/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/dad-with-stage-4-cancer-runs-marathon/#respond Mon, 05 May 2025 10:00:55 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=150179

Moved by the tears and laughter of young cancer patients in a neighbouring chemo ward, 43-year-old father Aadam Forgan saw the opportunity to restore these little warriors’ hope by channelling...

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Moved by the tears and laughter of young cancer patients in a neighbouring chemo ward, 43-year-old father Aadam Forgan saw the opportunity to restore these little warriors’ hope by channelling his love for running for their healing and future.

 

spar hero of the week

Cape Town, South Africa (05 May 2025) – It takes a truly remarkable soul to, despite facing his own aggressive cancer battle, endure a race to help support and uplift many little warriors on their own cancer journeys, too.

That soul goes by the name of Aadam Forgan, a 43-year-old father from Cape Town, who ran the Outeniqua Half Marathon as a charity run, despite bravely facing stage 4 colorectal cancer.

Aadam has undergone major surgery and chemotherapy sessions. While holding onto hope for a life-saving liver transplant, he did something truly amazing with other little lives in mind.

He had planned to raise what he called a “modest R20,000”, but amazingly exceeded that target with an incredible R36,252 for the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC) through his BackaBuddy campaign!

“When I go for chemotherapy, there is a separate ward for kids and adults. Sometimes a single session for me can be 6 to 8 hours long, and in that time, sometimes you will hear laughter from the kid’s side, but also you will hear tears,” recalls Aadam.

“I cannot tell you how this moves me during these chemo sessions, I will often stand up with my six drips and walk to the nearest window, which looks out onto the freeway, so that my tears can just drop without disturbing the other patients receiving treatment. Those children and their families are never far from my mind,” describes Aadam on the emotion that drove him to start the campaign.

For Aadam, this wasn’t just a fundraiser, it was a compelling pull on his heart. It was his way of bringing hope to countless youngsters undergoing all kinds of pain and challenges that they shouldn’t have to.

“I strongly believe that we have a duty to sow the seeds of hope in our children, and the only way to do this is by cultivating it in ourselves, and being examples during times of adversity,” he explains.

Aadam’s hope was to prove to himself and to everyone that hope is alive and well – and by conquering a marathon, rallying others to support his cause and succeeding, Aadam did just that!


Sources: BackaBuddy
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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East London Man Saves Life 6,500km Away in Intercontinental Stem Cell Match! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/bradley-peters-saves-life-6500km-away/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/bradley-peters-saves-life-6500km-away/#respond Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:00:51 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=149382

An apprentice mechanic from East London, Bradley Peters, had no idea that signing up as a stem cell donor would become a beacon of hope for a patient battling for...

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An apprentice mechanic from East London, Bradley Peters, had no idea that signing up as a stem cell donor would become a beacon of hope for a patient battling for their life in South America.

 

spar hero of the week

East London, South Africa (23 April 2025) – In the heart of East London, a 23-year-old young man, Bradley Peters, helped save the life of another all the way in South America in need of a bone marrow stem cell transplant.

The life-saving discovery came just over a year into the Matches on the Map intercontinental stem cell recruitment drive, supported by the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR).

Bradley is the first donor match that has been identified for a patient on the 64-country, 10-year voyage, which started in September 2023 when Robin Lewis, a former stem cell transplant survivor and his wife, Jolandie, left Mpumalanga on their epic journey.

To date, the campaign has garnered more than 1,000 eligible stem cell donor sign-ups to the SABMR.

Bradley, an apprentice mechanic from East London, signed up with the Matches on the Map team at an awareness drive last year. Nearly six months to the day, he received a call from the SABMR informing him that he was a potential match for a patient in far-flung South America.

Peters, who went on to donate his stem cells, says he never thought that such a small act would result in potentially saving the life of another person 6,500 km across the South Atlantic Ocean!

“When they called me, I wasn’t sure if it was a scam as I had already forgotten that I had signed up to the SABMR. I had no idea that a cheek swab would be the beginning of saving someone’s life! After I received the call, the SABMR set the wheels in motion to conduct the necessary testing to confirm whether I was a suitable match.”

Bradley also shared how his family was initially skeptical about the procedure, but he was put at ease when he explained it wouldn’t be invasive or harmful.

“I still can’t believe that I was part of something this special. I have always wanted to give back in some way, I never thought that this would be my fate. Every day is another chance to be a better person and if I could do it, so could anyone else.”

It’s all about signing up more donors to save more lives

Despite the daunting odds of finding a suitable match – a mere 1 in 100,000, with even greater challenges for patients of colour due to a non-representative donor pool – Bradley’s donation offers a precious second chance at life.

Deputy Director for the SABMR, Jane Ward, says additional stem cell donor sign-ups to the registry mean that more lives can be saved not only in South Africa, but abroad as well.

“Only 30% of people are lucky enough to find donors in their family, while the remaining 70% must look elsewhere for a match,” Ward explains.

“Despite access to nearly 43 million registered donors globally through the World Marrow Donor Association, many patients in desperate need still do not find a suitable donor with a matching tissue type. The more donors we have, the more patients we can help. We are honoured to have been able to secure a match within South Africa to give this patient a second chance at life.”

Matches on the Map gains newfound motivation.

For Lewis, founder of Matches on the Map and a stem cell transplant survivor himself, this first match was a powerful motivator to continue their vital work across continents.

Lewis was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia, a genetic DNA repair disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid tumours in the body. He underwent a stem cell transplant in 2018.

“Finding our first match in Bradley has hugely motivated us to keep pushing onwards. We’ve been on the road for the last 19 months and held successful recruitment drives in Eswatini, Lesotho and South Africa, and we’re currently traversing our fourth country, Namibia. This has by far been the highlight of our project!”

After Namibia, the Matches on the Map team will head to Angola, where the SABMR will be assisting with a translator and an additional team member to help recruit stem cell donors.

Lewis is calling on corporates, companies, schools and individuals to support either financially, help them with connections or by becoming donors.

“There are many ways to get involved with this project. The first is by attending one of our stem cell recruitment drives and signing up as a donor. We’re also looking to connect with local communities along our route to help us set up these drives and host awareness talks, giving more people the opportunity to register.

“While we do have a few partners on board, the majority of our voyage is self-funded, so financial contributions are greatly appreciated,” explains Lewis.

The Matches on the Map journey can be followed here or on Numinous Expeditions’ Facebook and Instagram platforms.


Sources: Supplied
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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Field Officer Solly Pens Open Letter About a Kitten Rescue That Touched Our Hearts https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/field-officer-solly-pens-open-letter/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/field-officer-solly-pens-open-letter/#respond Thu, 17 Apr 2025 10:00:27 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148983

When rescues happen, it’s often the act itself that takes the spotlight. Less often are we privy to the perspective of the rescuers. Recently, Field Officer Solly of the Tshwane...

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When rescues happen, it’s often the act itself that takes the spotlight. Less often are we privy to the perspective of the rescuers. Recently, Field Officer Solly of the Tshwane SPCA let people in on a recent case for a kitten litter dubbed ‘A Cry That Touched My Heart’.

 

spar hero of the week

Tshwane, South Africa (17 April 2025) — Rescue stories are some of the most powerful. They are moments when human kindness, bravery and quick thinking intervene to make a difference, big or small. Sometimes, they save lives. Other times, they give lives a second chance. Or, both. While the acts of the rescue themselves often take the spotlight, there’s something to be said about the perspective of the rescuer. Recently, Field Officer Solly Skhosana of the Tshwane SPCA let us in on that.

From the desk of Field Officer Solly, a heartwarming open letter was penned. Dubbed ‘A Cry That Touched My Heart’, the animal champion’s words took us right to an incident in which the officer had kittens to save.

In the Field Officer’s Words:

‘A Cry That Touched My Heart’

For many, weekends are a time of rest—but for those of us at Tshwane SPCA, it’s often when the most urgent cries for help come through. And on this particular weekend, a cry pierced through the quiet hours and reached straight into my heart.

As the first light of dawn touched the city, we received a call from a concerned community member. For three long days, they had been hearing the faint, desperate cries of kittens—but no one could pinpoint where the sound was coming from. Eventually, someone looked up—and realised the heartbreaking truth: the cries were coming from the roof.

Wasting no time, they called Tshwane SPCA.

When we arrived, the cries were still echoing, soft yet urgent. A sound so small, yet filled with immense desperation. A cry for help. A cry for survival. It was clear—we had to act immediately.

Climbing into the tight, dusty roof cavity, I followed the cries with care. The space was narrow and difficult to navigate, but my mission was clear. When I finally reached them, I found a litter of tiny, frightened kittens, huddled together in fear and exhaustion.

Carefully and gently, I gathered them into my arms—one by one—and brought them to safety.

They are now safe at Tshwane SPCA, warm, fed, and receiving the care they deserve.

This is what we do. This is why we exist. But we cannot do it alone.

Every rescue we carry out is powered by the support of people like you—people who care. People who choose to stand with us in the fight for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Field Officer Solly

The Field Officer’s letter is but one of many. The ‘cry for survival’ is a sound he and his team are not strangers to. In fact, we’re sure these cries echo in their minds long after the fact.

It’s important to remember that there are real humans behind these rescues we often take for granted; each putting whatever they’re going through in their own lives aside for the sake of another being. And there are few things more heroic than that.

You can support the Tshwane SPCA below:

Bank: FNB
Account Name: The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Tshwane NPC
Account Number: 56160007452
Branch Code: 261550 (Centurion)
Account Type: Cheque Account


Sources: Tshwane SPCA
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Siya’s Run for Cart Horses Inspires a Community, Exceeds Fundraising Goal! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/siyas-run-cart-horses-inspires-community/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/siyas-run-cart-horses-inspires-community/#respond Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:30:43 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=147972

Working as a harness maker at the Cart Horse Protection Association, Siya discovered a love for running, channelling his newfound passion into raising awareness and funds for the welfare of...

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Working as a harness maker at the Cart Horse Protection Association, Siya discovered a love for running, channelling his newfound passion into raising awareness and funds for the welfare of working cart horses. His recent mission was to conquer the Two Oceans Marathon – and he did just that and more!

 

spar hero of the week
Cape Town, South Africa (07 April 2025) – For Siya Mfanta, before running became a passion, it was a practical means to save on taxi fare during his 8.5 km commute from Delft to work in Epping every day! Yet, this simple means of getting by blossomed into a profound passion, evolving into something far greater than himself.

Working as a harness maker at the Cart Horse Protection Association (CHPA) for six years now, his avid running has seen him lace up his running shoes for more than just getting to work, but for a cause to support the welfare of horses.

Good Things Guy previously shared about Siya participating in his first-ever marathon at last year’s Cape Town Marathon, and since then, his momentum has gone from strength to strength!

Over the weekend Siya took on his first Two Oceans Marathon – his second race before he runs the Comrades Marathon in June this year. He ran the race with heart, and it showed! Not only did he complete the race in 4 hours 37 minutes, but he also surpassed his fundraising goal of R50,000 to raise an incredible R54,698 for the protection of working cart horses!

And when he returned to the stables after his great feat, Siya wasn’t quite ready to part ways with his running gear. Instead, he showered and decided to jump back into his sweaty clothes, as CHPA shares.

When asked why, Siya simply revealed that it was to inspire other youngsters in his community to run and pursue great things.

“I wanted to go home in my running gear and medal to inspire the youth in my area as a lot of them are now also interested in running. They inspire me as well and I hope I can make a difference in their lives,” an inspiring Siya shares.


Sources: Cart Horse Protection Association
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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Teacher Donates Kidney to Former Student, Gives Him a Second Chance at Life https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/teacher-donates-kidney-to-former-student-gives-him-a-second-chance-at-life/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/teacher-donates-kidney-to-former-student-gives-him-a-second-chance-at-life/#respond Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:42:45 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=147674

A kidney, a friendship and a whole lot of kindness. Kearsney Deputy Head donates kidney to save former student’s life.   KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (03 April 2025) – Last week,...

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A kidney, a friendship and a whole lot of kindness. Kearsney Deputy Head donates kidney to save former student’s life.

 

spar hero of the week

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (03 April 2025) – Last week, something truly extraordinary happened, a moment that reminds us how deeply people can care for each other, even across decades. Marc Ancillotti, Deputy Head at Kearsney College, underwent surgery to donate a kidney to his friend, Justin Fletcher… a former student he once taught at Michaelhouse 25 years ago.

It’s the kind of story that gives you goosebumps, a story that reminds us what love, friendship and human decency can look like in their purest form.

Justin, who was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure, had been told he had just 12 months to find a kidney. At the time, his wife Gaylyn was four months pregnant with their daughter and their lives were thrown into a terrifying spiral of uncertainty.

“My husband was told he had 12 months to find a kidney, to save his life. I was four months pregnant at the time. Our world was never going to be the same again,” she shared.

But then came Marc.

“I first read a ‘plea for help’ on a Michaelhouse Old Boys circular… I read the post and felt God calling me, saying, ‘You got this. Stand up and step forward’. I have never felt so convicted in my life to do something,” Marc wrote in a heartfelt post.

From that moment, Marc never looked back. He faced medical tests, allergic reactions, setbacks and bureaucratic delays. He kept showing up. He kept pushing forward.

“There were so many challenges,” he explained. “I failed tests, my blood pressure readings were out… the blood pressure monitor ‘broke’… I had to carry a 5L canister around at work… but I always knew it would happen.”

And it did.

On the 26th of March 2025, Marc gave a literal piece of himself so that Justin could live the life he deserved — as a husband, a father and the incredible human who lights up every room.

Teacher Donates Kidney to Former Student, Gives Him a Second Chance at Life
Photo Credit: Kearsney College Facebook Post

In a bid to ease the overwhelming medical costs, a crowdfunding campaign was launched through BackaBuddy. South Africans from all walks of life rallied together, raising an incredible R654,000 out of the R690,000 target. Proof that kindness still moves mountains.

Why does this matter? Because it’s a reminder that we still live among everyday heroes. That someone can look at an old schoolboy connection and say, “Yes, I’ll give you a part of myself so you can live.” Because Marc didn’t just give an organ… he gave a daughter her dad, a wife her husband, and a community their friend.

As Gaylyn so beautifully put it: “Justin is the epitome of goodness and kindness… his joy is infectious, his heart wide open. He now faces the biggest challenge of his life. And yet, even in the midst of it all, he still manages to smile, to love, to put others before himself.”

And now? There’s hope. There’s healing. There’s the promise of a future.

“I’ll never ever be able to thank Marc enough,” Gaylyn said. “But what I can promise him is that for the rest of my life, I will be kind. I will help other people feel special and loved and I will continuously let them know that they are enough… and I will pay it forward. Forever.”

That’s the legacy of this story, not just a successful surgery, but a ripple of kindness that will keep spreading.

Marc ended his note with one final wish: “Be kind. And help other people to feel special, and to feel loved, and to know that they are enough. That they have always been enough… and help them to feel so overwhelmed with love and kindness, like I feel now, that they just need to pay it forward.”

What a world we get to live in where people like Marc exist. Where love wins. Where kindness keeps showing up. And where, thanks to a kidney and an unbreakable friendship, the good things just keep on coming.

Teacher Donates Kidney to Former Student, Gives Him a Second Chance at Life
Justin and his daughter | Photo Credit: Backabuddy

Sources: Marc Ancillotti | Kearsney College | Backabuddy 
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Mitchells Plain Firefighter’s Swift Action Saves Baby Isaiah in Moment of Panic https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/firefighter-michael-samuels-saves-baby/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/firefighter-michael-samuels-saves-baby/#respond Tue, 25 Mar 2025 10:00:06 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=146994

After being alerted of a baby who had been struggling to breathe, Firefighter Michael Samuels immediately worked to dislodge a blockage in Isaiah’s airway, bringing immense relief to a family...

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After being alerted of a baby who had been struggling to breathe, Firefighter Michael Samuels immediately worked to dislodge a blockage in Isaiah’s airway, bringing immense relief to a family in desperate need.

 

spar hero of the week

Cape Town, South Africa (25 March 2025) – We have amazing heroes in our everyday civil workers. One remarkable firefighter stopped everything to come to the aid of a baby boy who’d been struggling to breathe, much to the panic of his mother, Cachet Scala.

Firefighter Michael Samuels, who had been on duty in the Watch Room at Mitchells Plain Fire Station at the time, was alerted by a nearby resident concerning a distressed baby at a neighbouring home in the early hours of Thursday, 13 March.

According to Cape Town’s MayCo member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, Samuels wasted no time to assist Cachet and her baby, Isaiah, upon arrival at the Fire Station.

“Firefighter Samuels set about trying to check for any blockages in his airway,” Smith explains.

“He managed to dislodge the blockage, providing instant relief to the baby who was transported to the hospital for further observation and care, on the advice of the Platoon’s senior medic, Firefighter Baigum Abrahams.”

Not stopping there, Samuels even visited the recovering baby in the hospital, showcasing a level of compassion that touched many.

Smith further commended this hero’s bravery, saying:

“There can be no doubt that his actions saved Isaiah’s life, and I am incredibly grateful to the mom for having the presence of mind to know that help was available at the Fire Station.”

There has also been an outpouring of love and praise from social media users saluting this honourable man for his service, which saved an innocent life and brought indescribable relief to a family that greatly depended on his expertise and quick thinking.


Sources: JP Smith
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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“Man in a Suit” Conquers Cape Town Cycle Tour in Under 3 Hours, Raising Funds for Jumping Kids! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/man-in-a-suit-conquers-cape-town-cycle-tour/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/man-in-a-suit-conquers-cape-town-cycle-tour/#respond Thu, 13 Mar 2025 13:00:34 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=146196

Imagine cycling 109km in under three hours, dressed in a full suit and tie! That is exactly what James McCallum did this past Sunday, in a most empathetic display of...

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Imagine cycling 109km in under three hours, dressed in a full suit and tie! That is exactly what James McCallum did this past Sunday, in a most empathetic display of supporting children with limb disabilities.

 

spar hero of the week

Cape Town, South Africa (13 March 2025) – He set himself a big endurance challenge in the most unexpected gear, with a heart positioned to help children in need and he succeeded!

James McCallum, popularly known as “Man in a Suit” took on the gruelling Cape Town Cycle Tour recently with a mission to complete it in under three hours – and he did (in 2 hours 47 minutes in fact) while sporting a full formal suit!

While others sought the impressive athletic gear for peak performance, James chose the symbolic attire of the everyday working person, transforming his ride into a powerful message that any regular person can make a difference.

“As technology has evolved, so has the quality of exercise equipment and apparel, which has consequently made training and competing easier and more efficient.

“It is difficult for us to think about making our training and/or competition more difficult by wearing clothes that do not “serve the purpose”,” James explains.

By racing in what we imagine to have been an uncomfortable suit for the occasion, James aimed for an impact that went beyond personal pursuit, seeking to touch lives and support a charity close to his heart: Jumping Kids.

This charity does incredible work in supplying and maintaining quality prosthetic equipment for children living with lower limb amputation or limb-related disability across South Africa.

Supporting this cause deeply resonated with James as someone who has come to realise that disabled athletes face complex mental challenges whilst simultaneously overcoming physical setbacks when it comes to competitive endurance sports.

With this weight on his heart, he pedalled through each kilometre in his suit and tie, making the race twice as challenging in support of differently-abled athletes while also celebrating their resilience.

“Doing endurance events in a suit is undoubtedly the most physically and mentally tough thing I have done.

“However, disabled athletes overcome far tougher mental and physical hurdles each day and as a result, it is my hope that being the “Man in a Suit” will help raise money to help lessen those burdens,” he shares.

What a heartfelt act of solidarity!


Sources: Supplied
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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Detective Phumza Sanqela’s Relentless Pursuit Puts Rapist Behind Bars for Life https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/detective-phumza-sanqela-relentless-pursuit-puts-rapist-behind-bars-for-life/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/detective-phumza-sanqela-relentless-pursuit-puts-rapist-behind-bars-for-life/#comments Wed, 12 Mar 2025 04:20:50 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=146013

Detective Constable Phumza Sanqela didn’t just solve a case… she changed lives. Through relentless dedication and an unshakable commitment to justice, she ensured that a dangerous predator will never walk...

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Detective Constable Phumza Sanqela didn’t just solve a case… she changed lives. Through relentless dedication and an unshakable commitment to justice, she ensured that a dangerous predator will never walk free again.

 

spar hero of the week

East London, South Africa (12 March 2025) – Headlines often focus on crime and injustice but there are stories that remind us of the unwavering dedication of those who work tirelessly to protect us. At Good Things Guy, we get to tell these stories and the story of Detective Constable Phumza Sanqela is one that should be celebrated far and wide.

Her relentless pursuit of justice has ensured that a dangerous rapist, Azola Derrick Mdali, will never harm another innocent person again.

Thanks to her commitment, the East London Regional Court sentenced Mdali to four life terms in prison for his horrific crimes against young women and minors across Buffalo City Metro District.

Between 2021 and 2022, Mdali preyed on his victims, using deception to lure them into secluded areas before attacking them. But what he didn’t anticipate was that Detective Constable Sanqela wouldn’t stop until she saw him behind bars.

It wasn’t just about collecting evidence. It was about giving the survivors a voice, ensuring their stories were heard and holding the perpetrator accountable. Each victim, aged between 15 and 25, showed incredible bravery in coming forward and their strength was met with the unwavering determination of an officer who refused to let justice slip away.

Major General Christopher Wright, Buffalo City District Commissioner, applauded the sentencing and recognised Detective Constable Sanqela’s dedication, “This sentence sends a strong message that gender-based violence will not be tolerated. We commend our officers for their hard work in ensuring justice for the victims.”

It’s a sentiment that echoes far beyond the walls of the courtroom. For every heartbreaking story of crime, there are people like Detective Constable Phumza Sanqela who refuse to let evil win.

Because of Detective Constable Sanqela’s dedication, four survivors can sleep a little easier, knowing that the man who tried to take their power away will never hurt anyone again. She is proof that there are officers in SAPS who fight for justice, who care deeply and who will never stop protecting the most vulnerable among us.

And that is something worth celebrating.


Sources: South African Police Services Press Release | Detective Constable Phumza Sanqela
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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