Stellenbosch Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/stellenbosch/ Thu, 01 May 2025 02:15:35 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Stellenbosch Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/stellenbosch/ 32 32 Lurina Turns Struggle Into Songs Of Hope For Diabetes Community https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/lurina-songs-hope-diabetes-community/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/lurina-songs-hope-diabetes-community/#respond Tue, 29 Apr 2025 12:00:12 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=149766

Lurina Fourie isn’t just living with type-1 diabetes; she’s positively transforming the experience for others. She has consistently found creative ways to connect with the diabetes community, with her latest...

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Lurina Fourie isn’t just living with type-1 diabetes; she’s positively transforming the experience for others. She has consistently found creative ways to connect with the diabetes community, with her latest project being an album of uplifting songs written specifically for those navigating life with diabetes.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (29 April 2025) – As an advocate for diabetes and a true inspiration, Lurina Fourie knows all too well the reality of living with the complex disease and has used her condition to spread not just awareness but positivity, too!

No stranger to Good Things Guy, we’ve shared about how Lurina has written poems, created a game, and even compiled a dictionary to help families understand diabetes.

Lurina got in touch with us to share her latest project – an album with a variety of relatable and inspiring songs written specifically for people living with diabetes!

“The songs are inspirational and uplifting, while focusing on the daily realities of life with diabetes.

“I am not a performing artist, so I write the songs and then the rest is created by AI, for me to be able to deliver a final product,” Lurina shares.

One of her uplifting songs, titled Rising Up, was featured on the global stage at the International Diabetes Federation World Diabetes Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, earlier this month, where she was also invited to attend—a truly proud moment for Lurina.

“The song is very personal to me, and experiencing it within this context, in person, touched my heart in many ways.”

Having lived with Type 1 diabetes for 25 years, Lurina hopes her songs, written from the heart, will, in turn, touch the hearts of those living with diabetes or other chronic conditions.

“Diabetes is often seen as a depressing topic, but with the means of music, we can turn depression into delight and brighten up the lives of others also living with diabetes, even if it’s only for a few minutes,” Lurina shares.

Her songs, Rising Up, Attitude of Gratitude and Best Version of Me are currently available on Spotify as well as other online platforms.


Sources: Lurina Fourie
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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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Stellenbosch is Schooling Every Other Municipality… With Their Tweets https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/stellenbosch-is-schooling-every-other-municipality-with-their-tweets/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/stellenbosch-is-schooling-every-other-municipality-with-their-tweets/#respond Fri, 18 Apr 2025 06:22:42 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148845

Who knew a municipal Twitter account could be this entertaining… or this inspiring? Stellenbosch is raising the bar for local government, one cheeky post at a time.   Western Cape,...

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Who knew a municipal Twitter account could be this entertaining… or this inspiring? Stellenbosch is raising the bar for local government, one cheeky post at a time.

 

Western Cape, South Africa (18 April 2025) – We’ve been quietly watching this unfold for a while now… debating whether to write anything at all. But honestly? We can’t not talk about whoever is running the Stellenbosch Municipality’s X (Twitter) account. Because it’s absolutely brilliant.

Imagine a municipal account that highlights the good work being done in their community but also does it with enough sass and confidence to make social media managers across the country sit up and pay attention.

That’s what’s happening in Stellies.

And it’s the kind of wholesome, hilarious content we didn’t know we needed.

The pattern’s become hilariously predictable: a municipality shares a feel-good update, maybe about fixing roads, sprucing up a park, or installing fresh lights… and then Stellenbosch swoops in, resharing it with a cheeky clapback like, “Keep it up” with a hilarious photo, or, “Nice of you to catch up.” Sometimes, they don’t even need words, just a side-by-side photo that says it all. Some municipalities have reportedly even deleted their posts after getting playfully “one-upped” by Stellenbosch. But we hope they start seeing it for what it is: motivation. Healthy competition. Proof that local government can be efficient, responsive, and still have a sense of humour.

We love whoever is running this account because at the heart of it, this isn’t just about snarky tweets or clever comebacks, it’s about pride. Pride in the work being done. Pride in building a better place for residents. Pride in setting the bar a little higher.

And that’s something worth celebrating.

So whoever you are behind that account… we see you. Keep up the good work. Keep showing us that municipalities can serve, inspire and entertain… all at the same time.


Sources: Stellenbosch Municipality’s X (Twitter) accountt
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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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How Morgan Rothman Refused to Let Cancer Define Her Future https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/morgan-rothman-refused-cancer-define-future/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/morgan-rothman-refused-cancer-define-future/#respond Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:30:15 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=148340

Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in childhood, a battle that defined her primary school years with constant trips to the hospital, Morgan Rothman faced adversity with remarkable courage...

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Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in childhood, a battle that defined her primary school years with constant trips to the hospital, Morgan Rothman faced adversity with remarkable courage to go on to achieve her wildest dream.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (10 April 2025) – Standing tall as an accomplished Stellenbosch University (SU) graduate, Morgan Rothman’s younger self is no doubt beaming with pride!

As a child in primary school, Morgan was met with a curveball that very few girls experience after being diagnosed with Dysgerminoma, a rare and malignant germ cell tumour that typically affects young women.

The condition presented itself as a tumour in one of her ovaries, which had to be removed. The diagnosis brought challenges of a different kind for Morgan and her family, who held onto strength and hope as she endured numerous medical procedures and chemotherapy at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.

“My entire primary school career consisted of check-ups,” Morgan tells SU.

But thanks to her loved ones, she was able to undergo every step of her treatment and overcome the cancer diagnosis.

“My support system over the years as well as growing up was really top-notch. I never felt the need to question my situation or that it was a burden to carry. The people around me genuinely tried to make my life as normal as possible.”

Morgan, now a qualified social worker, recently received her bachelor’s degree from SU – a dream come true for her and the pride of her supportive parents.

“I feel proud of myself because I never gave up. If I recall currently I’m the first  grandchild to graduate on my father’s side of the family. So I can imagine that my parents and grandmother are very proud.

“And it’s not just a paper with my name on it, that says ai have a degree. But it represents a story that I’m telling,” concludes an inspiring Morgan.


Sources: Stellenbosch University
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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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Rural Children Empowered Through Sport With Donation of 49 Bicycles! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/rural-children-empowered-through-sport-with-donation-of-49-bicycles/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/rural-children-empowered-through-sport-with-donation-of-49-bicycles/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:40 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=146376

49 bicycles were handed over to the Anna Foundation to benefit over 800 rural school children, providing children with their first taste of the cycling world. For many, it’s a...

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49 bicycles were handed over to the Anna Foundation to benefit over 800 rural school children, providing children with their first taste of the cycling world. For many, it’s a chance to build confidence, discipline, and resilience, skills that extend far beyond the bike trails.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (17 March 2025) – More than 800 rural children will soon get to experience the thrill of a first bike ride, the wind in their hair, and the newfound freedom of two wheels!

This is all thanks to a bicycle donation from the IRONMAN Foundation in collaboration with the Absa Cape Epic and Avalanche Bicycles.

The organisation handed over 49 bicycles to the Anna Foundation at the Polkadraai Bike Park on Thursday, 13 March, marking a significant boost for youth sports development in farming communities.

“This donation will give our 850 learners at 22 different projects their first taste of the cycling world, aligning perfectly with our 3Rs programme – Reading, Running, Right-ing… and Riding! Cycling builds confidence, discipline and resilience, and for many of these children, it will be their first opportunity to experience the sport,” says Anna Brom, director and founder of the Anna Foundation.

On the day of the bicycle handover at Polkadraai Bike Park, 28 children from the Anna Foundation’s aftercare projects at Neethlingshof, Waterford, and Devonvalley Primary School had the opportunity to try out the new bicycles on the park’s tracks.

The well-maintained dirt tracks and technical features provided a fun yet challenging environment for the learners to test their skills and experience the thrill of mountain biking.

Seven-year-old Jayceon Daniels, a learner from the Anna Foundation after-school project at Waterford Wine Estate, learnt to ride a bicycle on the day of the biking event.

A learner from the Anna Foundation afterschool project at Waterford Wine Estate, seven-year-old Jayceon Daniels’ joyful exhaustion after learning to ride captures the essence of this gift:

“I’m tired, but I’m so excited to be able to ride a bicycle now,” says Daniels.

This donation holds even greater significance as the Anna Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary, a milestone marking two decades of unwavering commitment to rural education and development.

What began with a simple running group has evolved into a comprehensive programme encompassing reading, running, writing, and now, riding.

With cycling now playing an important role in the Anna Foundation’s sports programme, the new bicycles are set to make a significant impact.

Hans Becking, a Dutch multiple-time national mountain bike champion, with a natural leadership style and passion for sharing his love of cycling with kids, was a true inspiration to the children on the day.

“I remember when I got my first bike and how it motivated me and changed my life. So, I hope today we could change some lives of some kids,” says Becking

Some of the Foundation’s children have already shown exceptional talent in mountain biking, and with the right support, they could go on to compete at a higher level.

“The bikes will be shared across our 22 projects, offering children the opportunity to discover the positive impact cycling can have on their physical and mental well-being,” adds Brom.


Sources: Supplied
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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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Stellenbosch University’s Art Auction to Raise Funds For Rare Disease Patients https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/stellenbosch-university-art-auction-rare-disease-patients/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/stellenbosch-university-art-auction-rare-disease-patients/#respond Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:00:23 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=142692

Stellenbosch University’s Rare Disease Genomics Research Group is using creativity to bring hope and healing to rare disease patients through an online charity art auction featuring original artworks by Cumine...

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Stellenbosch University’s Rare Disease Genomics Research Group is using creativity to bring hope and healing to rare disease patients through an online charity art auction featuring original artworks by Cumine van Tonder.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (31 January 2025) – Many South Africans battle with rare diseases throughout the world. Looking to provide much-needed support to patients in need in our country, Stellenbosch University’s Rare Disease Genomics Research Group is using art to bring hope and healing.

Through an online auction of original artworks, the group aims to raise funds for patient treatment, tests, and care.

The institution’s registrar for medical genetics, Cumine van Tonder, is the talented artist behind the stunning A1 canvas prints, which have impressively created a “visual dialogue where anatomy and nature intersect”.

According to Stellenbosch University, Van Tonder’s artistic flair was inspired by her mother and then her art teacher, Ms Pretorius, at Hoër Volkskool in Potchefstroom. Today, she is using that influence to support other people’s lives and their health challenges greatly.

“The funds raised through this auction will have a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of our rare disease patients and their families. All proceeds will go toward providing access to much-needed genetic testing and diagnostic services,” shares Van Tonder.

The initiative coincides with Rare Disease Month in February. With more than 300 million people globally suffering from rare diseases, the auction offers not just financial support but also a deeper understanding of the power of art to connect people from different walks of life and uplift those facing extraordinary challenges.

The Rare Diseases Group will also host a concert at the Endler Hall on 15 February. Titled Rare Talent For Rare Disease: A Night Of Music, Art And Purpose, this event will include performances by the Cape Junior Ballet, the Cape Choral Academy, the Stellenbosch University Symphonic Wind Ensemble and others.

Van Tonder hopes that participants take away a deeper understanding of the power of art to create change and foster connection.

“This initiative is not just about appreciating creativity but about recognising the profound ways we can support and uplift communities in need – specifically rare disease patients and their families,” she says.

To bid on a one-of-a-kind piece in an online auction, visit Rare Disease Charity Art Auction on Bidpro. The auction ends on 15 February. Tickets for the concert are available on Quicket.


Sources: Stellenbosch University
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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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Samaritan’s Feet Hopes to Empower Children With Shoes, Hope And Connection https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/samaritans-feet-empower-children/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/samaritans-feet-empower-children/#respond Tue, 28 Jan 2025 08:00:20 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=142358

Samaritan’s Feet believes in the power of connection and hope through shoes. While they have clothed the feet of over 100,000 South Africans to date, their mission goes beyond simply...

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Samaritan’s Feet believes in the power of connection and hope through shoes. While they have clothed the feet of over 100,000 South Africans to date, their mission goes beyond simply providing footwear.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (28 January 2025) – Over 100,000 pairs of shoes have been collected, distributed and placed on the feet of disadvantaged children and vulnerable people across South Africa. This is the incredible achievement of the beloved charity that continues to live up to its name, Samaritan’s Feet.

The charity’s core focus is to serve impoverished children and the elderly who don’t have proper shoes.

Thousands of volunteers have connected with these children individually and more organisations continue to take hands with Samaritan’s Feet in its mission to positively impact and inspire young people.

“Our approach is not one of merely giving shoes, but of giving hope. Because what people hunger for more than anything else, is hope,” Samaritan’s Feet South Africa CEO Hermien Louw shares.

When giving out shoes to those who need them most, kind volunteers make it a point to foster a connection by washing their feet and giving them hope.

“Because positive connection, both physical and emotional, makes an enormous impact on people’s lives,” adds Louw.

With ambitious goals for the year, Samaritan’s Feet aims to distribute 50,000 more pairs of shoes, expand its reach nationally, and deepen its impact through collaborative efforts with other organisations.

By also using sport and culture to connect with communities and providing support beyond just footwear, Samaritan’s Feet is truly helping children “walk into their destiny”!


Sources: Supplied
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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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159 Little Learners Start School with Big Smiles and Bigger Backpacks  https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/159-little-learners-start-school-with-big-smiles-and-bigger-backpacks/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/159-little-learners-start-school-with-big-smiles-and-bigger-backpacks/#respond Mon, 20 Jan 2025 08:46:52 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=141699

159 little learners were able to enjoy the beginning of their school days with all the necessary school supplies thanks to the kindness of strangers and the Pebbles Project!  ...

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159 little learners were able to enjoy the beginning of their school days with all the necessary school supplies thanks to the kindness of strangers and the Pebbles Project!

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (20 January 2025) — Thanks to the kindness of strangers and the fantastic Pebbles Project team, 159 little learners from farming communities in need got to kickstart their school days with big smiles (and even bigger backpacks filled with goodies).

For a large chunk of South Africa, the beginning of the school year exists in the territory of dire stress. Never-ending lists of school supplies coupled with financial constraints mean that some families struggle to send their children off to school with everything they need. In some cases, children end up staying at home because of this financial barrier.

Understanding this reality, the Pebbles Project steps in every year to help bridge this gap. A non-profit that believes one simple act of kindness can cause a ripple effect of good, the Pebbles Project connect those with the means to those with the need!

Their School Pack Programme specifically looks after the need for school supplies (a full stationary kit and a backpack), which made it possible for the 159 little learners to start their school careers off (Grade R) with a bang!

More About the Pebbles Project

Established in 2004, the Pebbles Project has spent the past two decades providing support across a spectrum of areas to children and families in farming communities.

These include areas of education, health, nutrition and social protection, as well as ECD Centres and After-School clubs, all of which help bridge gaps of opportunity in a bid to create a more prosperous future for communities that are often overlooked.

But, perhaps the best way to learn about Pebbles is to watch their beautiful short film, ‘Kindness’:


Sources: The Pebbles Project 
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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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‘Extracts from the Blind Astronomer’ Exhibition Touches the Stars https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/extracts-from-the-blind-astronomer-exhibition-touches-the-stars/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/extracts-from-the-blind-astronomer-exhibition-touches-the-stars/#respond Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:30:17 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=140745

The exhibition ‘Extracts from the Blind Astronomer’ is offering art lovers a way to touch the stars! With a Braille Star Atlas, unintentional puzzles and interactive pieces, Berco Wilsenach’s work...

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The exhibition ‘Extracts from the Blind Astronomer’ is offering art lovers a way to touch the stars! With a Braille Star Atlas, unintentional puzzles and interactive pieces, Berco Wilsenach’s work challenges the exclusivity of access gorgeously.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (08 January  2025) — A sensory art experience has visitors touching the stars thanks to Berco Wilsenach’s ‘Extracts from the Blind Astronomer’!

Extended following popular interest from viewers who attended the Light Art Festival, ’Extracts from the Blind Astronomer’ will feature works from Wilsenach that took the artist five years to complete.

As an artistic exploration of space and the world ‘out there’, Berco takes a unique approach by asking us not to rely solely on our sight.

The idea isn’t just about stars beyond, though. Dealing with ideas of visual impairment, access to knowledge and the privileged status of certain languages; the sensory art experience is one that also asks us to question the exclusivity of access.

“There’s a strong irony in having a blind astronomer showing all the stars that are visible to the naked eye. All the stars we see, I represent in a tactile way, so you can actually feel them,” Berco says.

In tow and central to the exhibition is the beautiful celestial guide ‘Star Atlas’—a book made up of knowledge describing the stars, written entirely in Braille.

“What’s beautiful about the book is that it’s exhibited in a way that embraces light, darkness and shadows to play with the senses,” Berco reflects.

Interactive puzzles are evident in another piece, ‘Stone Universe, ’ which is especially popular amongst the most curious humans—children.

But, the works are for anyone interested in viewing the world beyond our own in a different way.

“It allows a very large range of people to access the work on totally different levels,” explains Berco. “Children are trying to fit the right pieces to put the puzzle together even though there is no mention of it being a puzzle or indications of what should go where.

“People eventually just realise they should be interacting with it. I think art is very successful when you can communicate visually without actually telling people what to do,” concludes the artist.

The exhibition is set to be on display until 12 January at Spier Wine Farm’s Old Wine Cellar in Stellenbosch.


Sources: Supplied 
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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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Reach for Recovery Looks Forward to 2025 Filled With Hope and Healing! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/reach-for-recovery-2025-hope-healing/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/reach-for-recovery-2025-hope-healing/#respond Tue, 07 Jan 2025 07:00:54 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=140510

From prayers and practical assistance to access to vital resources, Reach for Recovery empowers breast cancer patients to face their diagnosis with courage and hope. As the organisation embarks on...

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From prayers and practical assistance to access to vital resources, Reach for Recovery empowers breast cancer patients to face their diagnosis with courage and hope. As the organisation embarks on a new year, it remains committed to its mission, driven by the belief that hope can see patients through their healing journey.

 

Stellenbosch, South Africa (07 January 2025) – As we embark on a new year, “hope” emerges as a powerful theme for many of us.

At Reach for Recovery, a lifeline for all breast cancer patients, hope is the very spiritual sustenance that keeps both patients and supportive volunteers going, even during the toughest moments of treatment. It’s a gentle reminder to cancer fighters to hang on for a better and brighter tomorrow.

From offering prayer and emotional support to providing practical assistance like mastectomy recovery guidance and access to high-quality prostheses, Reach for Recovery empowers women and men facing breast cancer. Volunteers play a vital role, offering a compassionate presence and a renewed sense of hope to those navigating this challenging journey.

Stephné van Deventer, National Manager of Reach for Recovery, expressed deep gratitude to the dedicated volunteers and supporters who create a sanctuary of hope and healing where no one faces their journey alone.

“Reflecting on our shared experiences, I am inspired by the strength and compassion that define this remarkable community.

“Your kindness, dedication, and support serve as the wings that carry those affected by breast cancer toward healing. Each volunteer and individual who has joined us has added warmth, light, and love to this journey,” Stephné emphasised.

Looking ahead, the organisation is poised for continued growth and impact, driven by the belief in the restorative and life-changing power of hope as well as the steadfast support of its compassionate soldiers in pink.


Sources: Reach for Recovery
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Chris Godfrey Honoured for 25 Years of Being a Pillar for Breast Cancer Patients https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/chris-godfrey-honoured-pillar-breast-cancer/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/chris-godfrey-honoured-pillar-breast-cancer/#respond Wed, 11 Dec 2024 13:00:10 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=139307

Chris Godfrey’s unwavering dedication to supporting breast cancer survivors certifies her as a true inspiration in our books. For 25 years, she has selflessly volunteered her time at Reach for...

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Chris Godfrey’s unwavering dedication to supporting breast cancer survivors certifies her as a true inspiration in our books. For 25 years, she has selflessly volunteered her time at Reach for Recovery, providing invaluable emotional and practical support to countless women – or ‘tough cookies’ as she likes to refer to them.

 

Western Cape, South Africa (11 December 2024) – In a world driven by personal pursuit and self-gratification, Chris Godfrey shines as one of those people who make you stop and appreciate kind individuals who selflessly serve others day in and day out.

Chris has dedicated 25 years of her life to offering practical and emotional support to the many women who have sought comfort at Reach for Recovery (R4R) in the Western Cape.

Chris has devoted much of her time to the R4R Stomsel group, which has supported women from the areas of Stellenbosch, Somerset West, and Strand, diagnosed with breast cancer.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, Chris was recently honoured with a certificate and the prestigious R4R Pink Diamond trophy by Roena de Villiers, chairperson of the group, on behalf of R4R National.

Reflecting on her journey, Chris shared heartfelt memories:

“The past 25 years of community service have been incredible. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside so many cherished colleagues in East London, George, Bloemfontein, and Somerset West/Stellenbosch, the places I’ve called home over the years.

“I’ve met countless patients—’over-uncountable,’ as my kids used to say—tough cookies, every single one. Encouraging these determined women to slow down was no easy feat. They were fighters, women with an unshakable will to WIN.”

Chris also recalled the hard times and tearful moments for families, particularly husbands who were lost without trusted companions.

She also reflected on the advancements in treatment, shifting from single-surgery mastectomies in the past to bilateral surgeries with reconstruction as the new norm, as well as an increased focus on prevention.

Ultimately, supporting so many incredible women hasn’t just been a duty but a profound privilege for Chris.

“My deepest regret is losing my younger daughter after her courageous 14½-year fight. That loss reinforced what I’ve always believed: our mantra must always be ‘Early Detection AND Early Treatment.’ Delays, for any reason, are simply not acceptable.

“As long as I’m able, I will continue to serve. I am deeply grateful to my vast network of friends and colleagues across the country for their love and support during the hard times,” shared Chris with determined spirit and a full heart.


Sources: Reach for Recovery
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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