There will be more medical heroes in South Africa thanks to a new medical school, set to be the 11th in our country.

North West, South Africa (29 April 2025) — South Africa’s future will have more medical heroes and leaders thanks to the news of a new medical school set to open its doors in the North West.

North-West University’s medical school officially received its name earlier this month as one that not only honours one of South Africa’s greatest leaders but also hopes to effect the lessons that said late legend graced our country with.

North-West University proudly shared that the new medical school is named after Archbishop Desmond Tutu and has been crowned the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

“This is not just a name, it’s a commitment to reimagine medical education in service of our communities and country,” NWU said.

Dr Mamphela Ramphele emphasised this sentiment, stating:

“It is the obligation of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine to live up to the values of ubuntu, and it is the responsibility of its students to meet the high standards that Desmond Tutu would have approved of.”

In South Africa, our healthcare system sorely needs values like the above in tandem with more educational institutions to drive them, and hopes are high that the new medical facility will live up to its promises.

The current doctor-to-patient ratio in South Africa is 0.31 doctors per 1000 people, as highlighted by Dr Ann Mokgokong. The nurse-to-patient ratio is 4.59 nurses per 1000 patients.

As such, the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine comes at a critical time.

The school is set to facilitate undergraduate and postgraduate training as well as research and engaged scholarship, which speaks to community support and strengthening health systems in the province.

It will welcome its first students in 2028.

Sources: North-West University 

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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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Leo Parker, the brave little lion fighting one of the rarest conditions on Earth, has finally found his lifesaving match.

South Africa (24 April 2025) – “It’s a perfect match!”… and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

After months of uncertainty, late nights filled with prayers and tireless hope echoing through hospital hallways and Facebook updates, Andrew and Tarryn Parker finally shared the news we’ve all been holding our breath for: a perfect stem cell donor has been found for their baby boy, Leo.

And just like that, the world got a little brighter.

Leo Parker, who we introduced you to in March, is no ordinary baby. At just 8 months old, he’s endured more medical challenges than most adults will face in a lifetime. Born with MECOM-associated syndrome, a condition so rare it’s barely recognised in global medical circles, Leo’s tiny body has been bravely battling complete bone marrow failure.

The simplest way to explain it (in the words of his incredible mom, who’s also a doctor) is that Leo’s “bone factory” isn’t working. The parts are faulty, and as a result, it’s not producing red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets. That means no oxygen flow, no infection fighters, no way for wounds to heal. Leo has been relying on regular transfusions just to stay alive, while facing daily risks most of us couldn’t begin to imagine.

But now, that narrative is shifting… because Leo has a match.

In a Facebook post on 23 April, the Parkers wrote:

“After months of prayers, searching, and uncertainty… our hope has arrived. A perfect stem cell donor has been found for our precious son, Leo! We are overwhelmed with gratitude for each of you… you’ve played a part in this miracle.”

They’re right, it is a miracle. But it’s also a reflection of something bigger: a community rallying together, complete strangers swabbing their cheeks and registering with DKMS in the hopes of being someone’s second chance.

And Leo’s story isn’t just about medical science or matched DNA , t’s about courage. His nickname, “the little lion,” couldn’t be more fitting. His smile, despite everything, has lit up rooms and social media feeds, inspiring thousands to register and take action. His story has reminded us of the power we all hold, the power to literally save lives.

The journey isn’t over, in fact, the hardest part still lies ahead. But this? This is the moment everything changed. Leo now has a fighting chance, and that changes everything.

To the Parker family, your courage is contagious.

To Leo, the littlest warrior with the loudest roar, we’re all cheering you on.

And to every person who swabbed, shared, supported or simply held this family in their hearts… you didn’t just raise awareness. You helped save a life.

Let’s not stop here. There are still children out there waiting for their miracle. You can be someone’s match. Visit dkms-africa.org and be the reason hope rises again.

Because today, hope found its voice. And it roared.

Sources: Andrew and Tarryn Parker

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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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A new portal is helping South Africans understand themselves better by making sense of their minds! A resource dedicated to brain health made simple, here’s what you need to know about ‘Brain Matters’:

South Africa (07 April 2025) — A new portal is helping South Africans make sense of their minds! Dubbed ‘Brain Matters’, the new online project by The Behaviour Change Agency is all about making brain health-related information that much easier to access and unpack, which, in an age inundated with content, opinions and armchair therapists, is a welcome resource for all.

The project is the brainchild of Pat Govender, the BCA’s managing director, who got to thinking about how trustworthy information could be better accessed by more South Africans. For the project’s mastermind and the team behind the portal, it was about addressing the often silent challenge that mental and brain health face in today’s world, and especially in the health sphere itself.

“We believe everyone deserves access to clear, trustworthy information about brain health,” says Pat. “Through Brain Matters we aim to create sustainable social impact while addressing one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.”

Brain Matters, then, is a resource that’s said to provide research-backed evidence for the changes we can all make to improve our brain function and overall, long-term health.

It also provides self-assessment tools and support, and answers questions you might have, like:

How do I build positive brain health?

‘Your brain is like a powerful engine that keeps you thinking, feeling and doing. When you’re running on empty, skipping meals, or pushing through constant stress, your brain doesn’t just notice – it responds. Just as you can strengthen your muscles through exercise, you can build a stronger, more resilient brain through daily choices and actions.’

 What affects my brain health negatively?

‘Life’s demands can feel relentless – whether it’s juggling work deadlines, financial worries or running on little sleep. This wear and tear on your mental well-being is what we mean by ‘brain strain’. Over time, these pressures can change how your brain works, affecting how you think, feel and respond to the world. When the load gets too heavy, your body steps in. Stress hormones are released, altering how brain cells communicate and disrupting the balance of chemicals that regulate your mood and emotions. Physical conditions like inflammation or high blood pressure can also impact brain function.’

You can check out Brain Matters here to do more reading about understanding your brain.

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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Researchers at the University of Pretoria have made a critical discovery regarding how much protein is in our food. Whether you’re a gym fiend or just someone who cares about your health, here’s what the researchers found out about our friend protein and why it could transform our health and even that of our economy.

Pretoria, South Africa (28 March 2025) – If there’s one word everyone identifying as a gym bro or bunny has etched into their brains, it’s protein.

Now, if you haven’t set foot in a gym in a while or consider a brisk walk heavy-duty exercise, you’d be forgiven for thinking that being overly concerned about protein only applies to people obsessed with putting on muscle. If you don’t want to look like a bodybuilder, is protein really so important?

The short answer is yes. Our bodies need it regardless of whether we’re entering a bodybuilding competition or just trying to meet basic health standards. However, how much protein you need is another matter. Even more interesting is knowing how much protein we’re actually getting from food sources!

You know you need protein, but how much are you actually getting?

Researchers at the Department of Animal Science and School of Health Systems and Public Health at the University of Pretoria made a pretty crucial discovery regarding the methods used to measure the protein content of foods.

They’ve confirmed that current methods often produce inaccurate results. Ie, what the back of the package tells us is usually an estimate.

The exciting part, though, is that this means there’s room for more accurate results. This could go a long way across many factors like preventing malnutrition, encouraging the cultivation of plant-sourced protein that more people can afford, and, of course, helping gym warriors meet their goals. It could even boost the economy if, say, a certain crop is actually more jam-packed with protein than we realise!

How is protein measured?

“Traditionally, scientists have used a method called the ‘proximate system’ to measure protein content,” explains Dr Beulah Pretorius. “By using specific nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors – also called the Jones conversion method – protein content is calculated based on the amount of nitrogen present in foodstuffs. This method assumes that most of the nitrogen in food comes from amino acids (the building blocks of protein) and that a significant portion of those amino acids are part of the protein.”

The commonly used conversion factor is 6.25, which again assumes that all proteins contain about 16% nitrogen. However, the research shows that this method can over- or underestimate the true content present in foodstuffs, ultimately providing inaccurate results.

“This is why scientists prefer to report protein in food composition tables, and to indicate ‘true protein’ on product labels as the sum of individual amino acid residues,” Dr Pretorius says. “The chemical analysis to determine the amino acid content is, however, complicated and costly, and therefore not a feasible methodology to use in developing countries.”

What if we could update and improve the conversion factors that are being used?

In an exploratory study, data was collected on the amino acid content in foods from animal sources. The crude protein was calculated by using the nitrogen value of the samples (as determined by the Kjeldahl method for dairy samples and the Dumas method for meat samples). These were then multiplied by the respective Jones conversion factors of 6.25 for meat samples and 6.38 for dairy samples. True protein was calculated as the sum of amino acid residues (the molecular weight of each amino acid, less the molecular weight of water).

“The findings were concerning,” Professor Hettie Schönfeldt says. “For all animal products, the protein content was over-reported. It became evident that the ‘assumed’ nitrogen content of protein is not 16% but varies significantly depending on the source of protein. By accurately determining protein content, we could not only counter malnutrition but also encourage the cultivation of a diverse range of plant species, including often- overlooked valuable sources of protein. A greater variety of crops would also result in much-desired biodiversity in regions.”

Socio-economic opportunities

“These changes will affect virtually all sectors in the food chain: agriculture, manufacturing, food preservation, labelling and regulatory compliance, to name a few,” Dr Pretorius adds.

To this point, it’s worth noting that the knock-off effect goes well beyond the industry. Healthier children can mean better results in school, better opportunities when they graduate and better futures because of it. It also means that there is room to boost other food types that could be grown by local communities, in turn boosting local economies.

“However, the greatest challenge would probably be to gain acceptance of new food options from the general population,” shares Dr Pretorius. “Humans are by nature resistant to change. It would therefore require intensive, persuasive education to alter dietary preferences.”

Why does protein matter anyway?

Without protein, humans face a plethora of problems, from losing muscle mass to being unable to concentrate. In severe cases, diseases like kwashiorkor or marasmus can develop.

It’s recommended that adults consume around 0/83g per of protein for each kilogram of body weight (per day). Needless to say, protein plays a big role in all our lives, whether we know it or not.

Sources: University of Pretoria; GTG

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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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Little Leo Parker is fighting a most rare fight at only 8 months old with a genetic disorder of which there are only just over 20 known cases in the world. The good news is that he can be cured should he find the correct donor (who might just be reading this right now).

Cape Town, South Africa (03 March 2025) — Little Leo Parker is fighting a most rare fight.

At just 8-months-old, Leo has already seen more medical specialists than most will see in a lifetime. Blood tests, transfusions, x-rays and procedures in abundance; for the little boy, these have all already been recurring characters in his life and his introduction to the world.

Leo has MECOM-associated syndrome. If you haven’t heard of it, that’s because it’s extremely rare. So rare that the geneticist Leo’s parents took him to hadn’t heard of it. It is so rare that there are only an estimated 23 known cases in the world, including Leo.

Leo’s parents share that the disorder causes complete bone marrow failure. To explain what the disorder impacts in simple terms, his mom, Tarryn Parker (a doctor herself), broke things down in the same way that she did to help her older son understand.

Essentially, Leo’s ‘bone factory’ (which produces the cells his blood needs) is defective. As such, the ‘factory’s’ parts are not working correctly, and the cells needed are not being produced.

As such, Leo’s bone marrow is no longer producing red (oxygen-carrying) and white blood cells (infection fighting) or platelets (which help wounds heal and bleeding stop).

“He is reliant on regular blood transfusions to prevent him from having a life-threatening bleed and is at constant risk of severe infection,” his parents explain.

The good news is that Leo can be cured. The hard news is, this is entirely dependent on finding the correct donor match.

“Leo’s only chance for survival is a bone marrow transplant,” his parents share, adding that there are currently no suitably matched donors on any national or international registries.

“This journey has been devastating and heartbreaking and we are pleading for your help.”

The Mighty Mack army has come together to stand behind the Parkers in their search for a match.

Like Leo’s parents, they are urging everyone who can to register as a bone marrow donor with DKMS and give Leo the chance at life.

Registering

Registering is nowhere near as complicated or time-consuming as one might assume. Good Things Guy’s Tyler has shared her own experience (which you can find here) for those who are curious about this initial step.

If you are between the ages of 18 – 55 and in general good health, you can request a swab kit at dkms-africa.org.

The Process

If you are a match, DKMS will contact you to begin the next steps. This includes a health check (where it’ll be confirmed whether you are the best match), followed by a peripheral blood stem cell donation (this is not a surgery) and then the bone marrow donation, which is a different procedure. You can find out more here. 

The more people who register, the more the odds lean in Leo’s favour.

Sources: Email Submission

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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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Little Oaheng Twala was running out of time. Born with a hidden heart defect, her future was uncertain – until a team of dedicated doctors and the Netcare Foundation stepped in. Now, after life-saving surgery, she’s unstoppable, embracing the world with boundless energy and a heart full of possibility.

Johannesburg, South Africa (19 February 2025) – At just over a year old, little Oaheng Twala’s world was filled with curiosity, laughter, and the joy of discovery. But behind her playful spirit was a silent struggle – one that could have taken everything from her. A hole in her heart threatened her future but thanks to the dedication of an incredible medical team and the generosity of the Netcare Foundation, Oaheng is now thriving, embracing life with an unstoppable energy.

Her journey began when she was just six weeks old. Without warning, she started turning blue, struggling to breathe, and had bubbles forming at her mouth. Her terrified parents, Keabetswe and Kamohelo Twala, rushed her to a hospital in Klerksdorp, where doctors treated her for what seemed like a chest infection.

But something wasn’t right. Even after the infection improved, her oxygen levels remained low, and a heart murmur was detected.

“On the day we learnt of our daughter’s heart condition, everything fell apart for us,” recalls her mother, Keabetswe Twala.

For a while, Oaheng’s condition stabilised but doctors soon confirmed she had atrial septal defect—a hole in the septum between the upper two chambers of her heart. Without surgery, her future was uncertain.

Mande Toubkin, general manager of emergency, trauma, transplant and corporate social investment (CSI) at Netcare, knows just how overwhelming the demand is for specialised paediatric heart surgeries.

“When we learnt of Oaheng’s situation, her condition had worsened and required urgent intervention. We resolved to find a way to help her as soon as possible,” says Toubkin.

That’s when a team of extraordinary doctors and specialists stepped in, determined to save her. Dr Mamaila Lebea, a paediatric cardiologist at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital, worked with the Netcare Foundation and Maboneng Heart and Lung Institute to arrange the operation. What followed was nothing short of remarkable. Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Erich Schürmann, Dr Martin Myburgh of the Maboneng Heart and Lung Institute, paediatric cardiologist Dr Janine Meares, anaesthetist Dr Edith Klebe, and cardiac perfusionist Mr Thulas Dladla all dedicated their time and expertise pro bono to ensure Oaheng got the life-saving surgery she desperately needed.

“If untreated, a hole in the septum the size Oaheng was suffering from can be debilitating and life-threatening. As the child grows, the heart defect ultimately damages the arteries of the lungs. Fortunately, we were able to successfully close the hole in her heart, and her prognosis is bright,” says Dr Schürmann.

Dr Lebea adds, “With the support of the doctors and the Netcare Foundation, she has a chance at a healthier future. This operation has transformed the course of Oaheng’s life and offered her the opportunity to thrive.”

And thrive she has! Her parents can hardly believe how quickly she bounced back.

“She has healed so quickly, and she has been so active since the operation. Oaheng knows what she wants, and now she is unstoppable! She is fascinated by the world around her and plays with everything – except her toys,” says Keabetswe with a laugh.

Her father, Kamohelo, expressed his family’s immense gratitude.

“Our hearts are filled with so much gratitude for the incredible support and care that the Netcare Foundation, Maboneng Heart and Lung Institute, and Netcare Sunninghill Hospital team have provided for our daughter.

“In this journey, we have cried many tears of happiness and also a little nervousness. This life-changing procedure has given her a brighter future, and we are deeply appreciative of the hard work, dedication, and kindness shown by everyone during her stay,” he says.

Special thanks were also given to Dr Lebea for her compassionate guidance throughout the process and to the skilled surgeons and medical professionals who ensured Oaheng was in the best hands.

Now, with a heart full of strength and a spirit as lively as ever, Oaheng has developed a love for playing outdoors, a growing appetite for mash and lasagne, and a particular fascination with trying on her mother’s shoes and handbags.

“Oaheng’s name means ‘To Build’, and now we can really see her interests and curiosity coming through more strongly. We are so appreciative that our daughter now has the chance to build her life thanks to this procedure,” says Keabetswe.

This is what happens when compassion, expertise, and generosity come together – a child’s future is saved, and a family’s hope is restored.

For more information about the Maboneng Foundation, which coordinates sponsorship of these life-saving procedures, or to donate and help more children like Oaheng, visit the Maboneng Foundation website.

Sources: Netcare | Maboneng Foundation 

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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.

The post From “Heart Break” to Hope – Little Oaheng’s Life-Saving Miracle! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

This Epilepsy Week, experts take us through important need-to-knows when it comes to epilepsy: why it is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, as well as the treatment gaps countries like South Africa face:

South Africa (12 February 2025) — This Epilepsy Week, experts remind us of the very real challenges posed by epilepsy, especially in low-income regions. From unpacking the epilepsy treatment gap to sharing need-to-knows about epilepsy and how it manifests, the more we all know, the better we can do and push for!

The Epilepsy Treatment Gap

In a nutshell, the epilepsy gap refers to the disparity between those in need of treatment and those receiving it; the gap remains at an alarming 80% to 90% globally, with significant regional variations.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 50 million people worldwide live with epilepsy, the vast majority residing in low-income regions such as sub-Saharan Africa.

Professor Dali Magazi, member of the Neurological Association of South Africa, stresses during Epilepsy Week (which runs until 16 February), the urgency of addressing epilepsy on multiple fronts.

“The burden of epilepsy is particularly severe in poorer regions, where access to diagnosis and treatment remains limited. By improving awareness and accessibility to treatment, we can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected,” he states.

He says that studies show that in low‐ and middle‐income countries, 75% of epilepsy patients lack access to effective and low‐cost antiseizure medications, which limits the success rate in curbing the occurrence of a second seizure.

“In addition, lack of neurologists, limited research and poor resource management contribute to a lack of understanding and defining the condition, which leads to misdiagnosis or lack of treatment.”

Social Impact

Beyond medical concerns, epilepsy carries significant social implications, including stigma, bullying, job discrimination and relationship challenges.

“The stigma associated with epilepsy can be just as damaging as the seizures themselves,” says Prof Magazi. “It is not uncommon for people in both urban and rural communities to believe that those with epilepsy are possessed by demons or are bewitched.”

“This misinformation has a substantial impact on patients seeking medical assistance and leads to isolation, abandonment by their community and exclusion from education and employment opportunities. It can lead to distress, depression, a sense of helplessness and being ashamed.”

The Nature of Epilepsy

Prof Magazi explains the complicated nature of epilepsy:

“An intricate balance between electrical and chemical impulses sustains life and allows interaction with our environment. We need the electrical network housed within the brain, composed of neurons and supporting structures to survive. When disrupted, it can lead to conditions like paralysis or seizures.”

Not All Seizures Indicate Epilepsy

“Just like a swallow doesn’t a summer make, a seizure is not an exact equivalent to epilepsy.  A myriad of causes for seizures can be reversed in the immediate in which case, the diagnosis would just be ‘a provoked seizure episode’. Examples of such causes include a low glucose and various other salt concentration disturbances in the blood or even a triggering infection. Having dealt with the underlying cause, there would be no need for long-term treatment like would ordinarily be the case with epilepsy,” says Prof Magazi.

He says that it is the recurrence of seizures without an immediate reversible cause that makes for the diagnosis of epilepsy. “The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) has recently refined diagnostic criteria, allowing for a single seizure to be classified as epilepsy if the risk of recurrence exceeds 60%—a determination made through clinical evaluation, brain imaging, and electroencephalograms (EEG).”

The Different ‘Faces’ of Epilepsy

Epilepsy manifests in diverse ways, categorised into four primary types: motor (muscle jerks, stiffness, or loss of muscle tone), sensory (loss of sensation in a body part), psychic (confusion that is itself a seizure rather than an aftermath), and autonomic (manifesting as abdominal discomfort or palpitations). This diversity extends to causes, treatment responses, and prognosis.

“Epilepsy is not a one-size-fits-all condition,” says Prof Magazi. “There are different types, different triggers, and different responses to treatment. This is why we now talk about ‘epilepsies’ rather than just epilepsy.”

Certain childhood epilepsy syndromes can be misinterpreted. For example, absence seizures—brief, frequent episodes of unconsciousness—are often mistaken for daydreaming, potentially leading to declining school performance.

“Fortunately, these are highly treatable and tend to resolve by adolescence,” Prof Magazi notes. “An EEG can help confirm the diagnosis, ensuring that the child receives the appropriate treatment early on.”

Causes and Influences

Epilepsy can be caused by various factors, including head trauma, strokes, meningitis, and autoimmune disorders. “Understanding the cause is crucial,” Prof Magazi explains. “It allows us to tailor treatment strategies, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.”

Medication adherence is a critical aspect of epilepsy management. “Stopping or irregularly taking epilepsy medication significantly increases the risk of status epilepticus—a prolonged seizure that requires emergency medical intervention,” warns Prof Magazi. “This can be life-threatening and often requires intensive care.”

If a patient continues to experience seizures despite optimal treatment with two appropriately chosen medications, their condition is classified as refractory epilepsy.

“In these cases, we explore alternative interventions, including ketogenic diets (for children), nerve stimulation or surgery,” says Prof Magazi. “While epilepsy surgery is available in South Africa, it is limited to a few specialised centers.”

External factors such as drug interactions, psychological stress, menstrual cycles and infections can also influence seizure frequency.

“Being aware of these triggers can prevent unnecessary medication adjustments,” Prof Magazi advises. “Patients and caregivers should work closely with their healthcare providers to identify and manage these factors effectively.”

Looking Beyond the Surface and Providing Support

Prof Magazi says psychogenic seizures could be a cry out for help.

“In some cases, what appears to be epilepsy may be psychological distress manifesting as pseudo-seizures, often linked to trauma or abuse. Patience and compassionate evaluation are crucial. Family members recording seizures on mobile phones can also be an invaluable tool for accurate diagnosis.”

Community support programs play a vital role in reducing isolation and encouraging inclusivity.

“Organisations such as Epilepsy South Africa do incredible work in providing care, particularly for those with additional mental health challenges,” Prof Magazi notes. “Their emblem, a candle flame, is a powerful reminder that epilepsy does not have to overshadow a person’s life.”

There are many inspiring examples of individuals who have thrived despite their epilepsy diagnosis. “Take Marion Clignet, for instance,” Magazi shares. “She was diagnosed with epilepsy at 22 but went on to win five gold medals as a world cycling champion. Her story is a testament to what is possible with the right support and determination.”

Sources: Linda Christensen

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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.

The post Epilepsy Week: Understanding Epilepsy Beyond The Surface  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Following the loss of a beloved member of the cycling community to cancer, The Cape Town Cycle Tour is doing something incredible. In a world first, riders are set to be given free melanoma screenings:

Cape Town, South Africa (11 February 2025) — When the cycling community lost one of their own to cancer, it was a striking reminder that while no one is safe from developing a melanoma, cyclists are at particular risk. In honour of the dear friend that Tim Brink was to many and in the spirit of making healthcare essentials more accessible, the Cape Town Cycle Tour is giving participating riders free melanoma screenings.

“[Tim’s] battle began with a melanoma, which was only diagnosed after it had spread to surrounding areas,” explains Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust Director, David Bellairs.

“Tim was a celebrated journalist and accomplished cyclist, and this initiative, which we hope to extend in coming years, is a celebration of a great man, and a potentially life-saving intervention for every participant.”

“This initiative is dedicated to the memory of Tim Brink, beloved editor of Bicycling Magazine and a respected figure in South Africa’s cycling community, whose battle with melanoma has become a powerful inspiration for us to take action and protect others. This is a movement that redefines how we tackle skin cancer prevention through public events.” Premier Alan Winde adds.

With support from the Western Cape Premier, renowned dermatologist Dr Dagmar Whitaker, Healthspan Physician Dr Michael Mol and different businesses, the free Melanoma Screenings will be presented by Clicks to be available at the 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour Lifecycle Expo.

Due to a combination of factors related to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays, cyclists have a heightened risk of developing skin cancer.

However, despite its fierce presence, Melanoma is one of the easier cancers to catch.

As Dr Michael Mol highlights:

“Melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer, but it offers a unique advantage: It is one of the few cancers that we can see. Spotting it early, before it spreads, dramatically boosts survival rates and makes treatment far more effective. With skin cancer there is no excuse to miss what is in plain sight.”

The Cape Town Cycle Tour Lifecycle Expo will be on from6 – 8 March at the DHL Stadium.

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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Learning that you’re pre-diabetic isn’t news anyone wants to receive. But it’s also not the end of the story. Turning prediabetes around and getting back to normal is not a pipe dream. Here are three helpful ways to do it!

South Africa (10 February 2025) — South Africa’s leading cause of death in women and the second leading cause of death in men is, ironically, not even an inherently lethal disease. Diabetes is not only a condition that can be managed; it’s also one that can be turned around if you know you have prediabetes.

Saturday, 15th February, marks Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Day, and prediabetes is among the most urgent conditions to be aware of. Bridget McNulty explains what it is, how many of us have it, and what to do about it:

What is Prediabetes?

When blood sugar (also known as blood glucose) is higher than normal but not so high that it is considered Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it falls under the prediabetes category.

The World Health Organisation considers fasting blood glucose levels of below 6mmol/l to be normal. Above 7mmol/l fasting glucose (when you haven’t eaten anything) will need further checks but may indicate diabetes. Between these two cutoff points lies the prediabetes range: 6 to 7mmol/l.

Obviously, you can only turn things around if you know what you’re dealing with. This is why getting your blood sugar checked at your local clinic or pharmacy is a must.

How Many People Have Prediabetes?

According to the SA Demographic Health Survey, 2 in 3 South Africans are in the prediabetes range.

What Can I Do?

The good news is that if you have prediabetes, it is entirely possible to make diet and lifestyle changes and bring your blood sugar levels back to the normal range! These efforts dramatically reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life, saving you all the complications that come with it.

Three Behaviours to Turn Prediabetes Around

Hello Healthy Food

It’s time to load up on healthy food, specifically green, leafy vegetables. We should all be eating half a plate of green, leafy vegetables for lunch and dinner. And if you aren’t, it’s a simple but powerful change to make.

Exercise a Little Each Day

It doesn’t have to be complicated. A half an hour’s walk around the block will do, or some squats and stretches in your lounge if walking around the block isn’t an option.

Look After Your Weight

Being medically overweight is a significant risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes because it can make you more insulin-resistant.

If you can drink water instead of fizzy drinks or juice and make the other two changes above (half a plate of green, leafy vegetables and daily exercise), you’ll be well on your way to better health!

The Five Symptoms of Diabetes

More people knowing the 5 symptoms of diabetes means more people potentially get an earlier diagnosis and living a longer, healthier life.

They are:

1. Needing to pee (a lot)
2. Excessive thirst
3. More hunger than usual
4. Weight loss
5. Exhaustion

Diabetes Support

It can be overwhelming to consider making changes to the way you eat and live. But if you take control of your health, you’re ultimately empowering yourself for a healthier future.

The Sweet Life community offers loads of advice and support for managing diabetes, and you can check them out here.

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.

The post Turning Prediabetes Around is Not a Pipe Dream  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Doctor Rihangwele Mukhinindi is on a mission to transform cancer care in rural communities; empowering healthcare workers and patients!

Limpopo, South Africa (05 February 2025) — In recognition of World Cancer Day (celebrated on 4 February), we’re turning the spotlight to those working tirelessly to improve cancer care in their communities. One such individual on this brand of mission is Dr Rihangwele Mukhinindi—a doctor who is transforming the care patients receive in rural Limpopo.

Inspired to get into medicine from a young age, Dr Mukhinindi used to frequent a small clinic on the army base where her father served in the South African National Defence Force. Her time at the clinic planted the seed for her to dream of becoming a doctor one day, a title she now wears proudly.

Reflecting on her early years, she affectionately recalls the support she received from her late mother who used to call her “doctor” when Dr Mukhinindi was still only a child.

“She was my biggest cheerleader,” the doctor says of her mom.

To get her foot in the door of healthcare, Dr Mukhinindi enrolled in a nursing programme at first–something that would prove to be a hugely important foundation

“I realised that in nursing, you start interacting with patients within months, which gave me the experience and empathy I now bring into my work as a doctor,” she explains.

Today, Dr Mukhinindi is based at Lebowakgomo Hospital in Limpopo where she is a family physician whose work focuses on training more healthcare workers to improve the early diagnosis, treatment and palliative care for cancer patients.

This particular focus came as the result of wanting to uplift her community in areas they were underserved.

“Most of our patients are elderly and may not easily access cancer information,” Dr Mukhinindi says. As such, she became determined to ensure that community health workers are better trained and better equipped.

To this, Dr Mukhinindi launched an initiative to incorporate cancer screening into routine check-ups for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

“We wanted to equip our healthcare workers to ask the right questions when patients come in for their check-ups.”

For example, male patients receiving blood pressure medicine are now screened for symptoms of prostate cancer. Albeit a common disease, it is also one that often slips under the radar in the community.

In a big moment for herself and her work, Dr Mukhinindi was recognised by the Discovery Foundation Rural Individual Award (2023/2024); a grant she has used to support her efforts, especially through designing a five-day training programme for doctors, nurses and community health workers from 17 clinics across Limpopo.

Thanks to the programme, to date over 100 healthcare workers have been trained to detect early signs of cancer and provide care!

Of her commitment to her community, Dr Mukhinindi shares:

“You’re giving hope to people who often think that they have no options left. It’s incredibly rewarding to see someone’s face light up when they realise there’s help available.”

As Dr Mukhinindi continues her imperative work, she remains drive by the belief that quality healthcare should be accessible to all.

“Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to the care and support they need to fight cancer.”

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.

The post This Doctor is on a Mission to Transform Cancer Care in Rural Limpopo! appeared first on Good Things Guy.