South Africa’s own “Katniss Everdeen” archer Neve Quail has a shot at competing in the European Youth Cup!

Durban, South Africa (19 May 2025) — A fun evening at Scouts attempting to achieve an Archery badge changed Neve Quail’s life forever. Today, 17-year-old Neve is a skilled archer ranked first in her age group and as the second-highest female recurve archer in South Africa. With multiple records, National colours and podium moments under her belt, Neve’s well on her way to becoming an Olympian. Not to mention, she also has a shot at a huge opportunity ahead of her that would serve her greatly in getting there, the European Youth Cup.

This is an inspiring achievement for any young athlete. However, it’s also an extra special one for the Type 1 Diabetes community.

Neve and her family learned that she had Type 1 Diabetes at just 6 years old. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, Type 1 is not chalked down to one’s lifestyle. Instead, it is a chronic auto-immune condition often diagnosed early on in life. The pancreas stops insulin production, which means that one essentially has to fill in for the organ (read: a life of maintenance and insulin injections).

Neve is one of those impressive people who, as her mom Heidi shares, has not let her condition stand in her way (even though we’re sure it very well could).

Despite all her training and talent, it’s also her mental fortitude that has led Neve to her big opportunity at the European Youth Cup, an opportunity she’s hoping South Africa will help her see through.

Along with her Team SA counterparts, Neve’s competition at the European Youth Cup could offer a massive boost in how she ranks worldwide, ultimately influencing her participation in events like the World Games and the Youth Olympics.

The South African National Archery Association’s budgetary constraints have meant that the archers need to pay their way.

As Heidi Quail explains, the family are not in a position to pay for Neve’s opportunity. As such, they are holding thumbs that if a lot of people come together to give what they can, Neve could get to make South Africa proud and show the world what her arrows are made of.

You can support Neve’s crowdfund, here. 

Sources: Email Submission 

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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 Archer Neve Nabs Shot at European Youth Cup  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In the face of heartbreak, ordinary people have done something extraordinary… raising almost R400,000 for Eben Beukes’ recovery through sheer compassion.

South Africa (17 May 2025) – Ten-year-old Eben Beukes was known as “the kid with the brightest smile in the room”, a gentle, kind-hearted boy who loved school. But in December 2024, his world changed overnight. A routine viral illness escalated into the rare PIMS (Paediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome), triggering a secondary streptococcal infection.

Eben’s little body was overwhelmed. He suffered multiple strokes and significant cerebral damage. The vivacious boy is now critically ill, blinded by the brain injuries, unable to walk or talk, and he needs full-time, round-the-clock care.

Eben’s family has already endured unspeakable heartbreak. Two years ago, his mother tragically passed away after suffering strokes, leaving Hendrik Beukes, a single father, to raise Eben and his 15-year-old sister, Ané. In the wake of Eben’s collapse, Hendrik has become his son’s sole pillar of support. Now, as a single father, he’s dealing with deep grief while caring for Eben and supporting Ané. The burden is immense: Eben has lost his sight and can no longer speak or walk and needs constant care. The loving father stays by Eben’s side but the family faces mounting medical and homecare needs that far exceed their means.

In a beautiful display of community spirit, South Africans have rallied to Eben’s aid.

Since launching a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, ordinary people doing something extraordinary have helped raise over R238,000 (at the time of originally publishing our first article, the campaign had already reached R148,750 and continues to grow). The goal is to reach R500,000 – enough to provide the care, comfort and dignity Eben deserves. Every donation, no matter the size, is helping lift this family in ways words can barely describe.

And that’s not all.

Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels radio team and charity partners have stepped in with even more critical support. To date, over R160,000 has been donated directly through their network. Contributions include R50,000 from Round Table Pretoria, R50,000 from the Caring Daisies, R30,000 from Corestruc, and R30,000 from the Good Morning Angels Fund NPC.

This brings the total donations to R398,000.

These funds are earmarked for Eben’s home-care and rehabilitation needs: specialised beds, medical equipment, nursing care, therapy sessions and other essentials to give Eben a fighting chance at recovery.

As one Good Morning Angels sponsor explained, every rand helps cover 24-hour palliative support, including nursing care, feeding assistance, medical equipment and essentials like diapers for Eben. The aim is to ease Hendrik’s burden so he can focus on caring for his son with dignity and love.

Jacaranda FM presenter Martin Bester, who has led the Good Morning Angels campaign, spoke for many when he said, “No 10-year-old should have to go through what Eben is going through – and no father should have to do it alone.”

These words have galvanised listeners to action. Parents and strangers alike have sent messages of hope: “From one parent to another, we’re with you,” wrote a donor. A teacher who knows the family, Liné Niemand, even shared her own heartbreak and faith, saying Eben “is the kind of sweet, clever, loving boy” who has already made a difference in people’s lives.

Despite the nightmare they are facing, Eben’s story has inspired an outpouring of compassion. Every day, South Africans… neighbours, school friends and community groups are stepping up to say Eben is not alone. Every new rand, every prayer and every encouraging word adds light to this family’s dark time. Eben’s ordeal reminds us of how powerful love and community can be. In just a few short months, strangers have become friends and kindness has become Eben’s lifeline.

Community spirit has truly brought light to a dark time, showing this family that they are not alone – and reminding the rest of us that, in South Africa, hope has many hands and an even bigger heart.

*At the time of publishing our original article, the Crowdfund amounted to R148,750; that number has since increased to R247,620; added to that is the R160,000 donation from Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels.

Sources: Hendrik Beukes | Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels 

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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 Almost R400,000 Raised for Eben: A Nation Rallies for One Brave Little Kid appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Ten-year-old Eben Beukes was once the kid with the brightest smile in the room. Today, he’s fighting to stay alive, and South Africans from every corner are coming together to make sure he doesn’t do it alone.

South Africa (04 May 2025) – Sometimes, life hits harder than we think possible. But sometimes, people show up in ways that remind us just how powerful love and community can be.

Ten-year-old Eben Beukes is the kind of kid who used to light up every room he walked into. Full of joy. Gentle. Kind. The type of soul that made the world just a bit softer.

But in December, everything changed. What started as a COVID-19 diagnosis quickly spiralled into something much more serious, a rare condition known as PIMS (Paediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome), followed by a severe streptococcal infection.

Eben’s little body was overwhelmed. He suffered multiple strokes and significant cerebral damage. Practically overnight, his world, and his family’s, was turned upside down. Now, he requires round-the-clock care: from feeding and hygiene support to constant medical attention and specialised equipment.

It’s an unimaginable reality for any parent… and Eben’s father, Hendrik Beukes, is walking it with courage most of us can barely fathom.

Two years ago, Hendrik lost his wife to a stroke. Now, as a single father, he’s carrying the emotional weight of caring for his critically ill son while holding space for his daughter Ané, who’s just 15 and watching her baby brother fight battles no child should face.

But here’s where this story turns. Because while the odds have felt cruel, South Africans are doing what they do best… rallying around a family that desperately needs some light.

Since launching a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, R148,750 has already been raised by ordinary people doing something extraordinary. The goal is to raise R500,000, enough to help provide the care, comfort and dignity Eben deserves.

The donations don’t just cover medical costs. They’re keeping hope alive. They’re helping a dad breathe. They’re reminding a family that they are not alone.

And the messages are just as powerful as the money.

“You don’t know me,” wrote one donor, “but I see you. You’re not forgotten. Your love for your boy is the kind of strength this world needs more of.”

Another simply said: “From one parent to another, we’re with you.”

Whether it’s R10 or R1,000, a prayer, or a message of support… it all matters. It all adds up. And it’s proof that empathy isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a living, breathing force.

So if you’re able to help in any way, big or small, you can make a real difference. You can be part of the story that reminds a grieving father that the world is still full of kindness. That his son still matters to people far beyond their circle. That good things really can happen, even in the hardest moments.

To donate or learn more, visit the BackaBuddy campaign here.Or reach out directly to Hendrik Beukes on 0614621420 if you’d like to offer support or kind words.

*At the time of publishing, the Crowdfund amounted to R148,750, that number has since increased to R238,060.

Sources: Eben Beukes 

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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 Hope For Eben: South Africans Unite to Support a Brave Little Fighter appeared first on Good Things Guy.

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, 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.

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.

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.

The post Teacher Donates Kidney to Former Student, Gives Him a Second Chance at Life appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A bold sign stuck on a Joburg car has everyone talking. It screams cheating scandal but the truth behind it is unexpectedly moving… and might just restore your faith in humanity.

Johannesburg, South Africa (26 March 2025) – A car with a scandalous sign is turning heads across Joburg but what looks like a dramatic cheating exposé is actually a bold, brilliant plea to help a father fight for his life.

“Grant, you are trying to CHEAT on me!!!”

That’s the all-caps message stuck to the back of a car making its way through the streets of Johannesburg, complete with a QR code that promises more drama.

Naturally, it caught people’s attention. In fact, Good Things Guy was alerted to the sign when it was posted in the popular I Love Fourways Facebook group — where curious locals were quick to speculate, comment, and eventually… scan.

And that’s when everything changes.

The QR code doesn’t lead to a scandal. It leads to hope. It takes you to a BackaBuddy campaign with a heartfelt message:

“Help Me Cheat Death and Keep Living Life to the Fullest.”

The Grant in question is Grant Forbes. A father, sportsman and someone who has lived his entire life refusing to let Type 1 diabetes hold him back. From bodybuilding and cycling to being a hands-on dad to his son Aarin, Grant has always embraced life with purpose.

But right now, he’s facing his biggest challenge yet: his kidneys are failing, and he needs a transplant to survive.

“This transplant isn’t just about survival,” Grant writes. “It’s about giving me the chance to keep being the dad who plays rugby with his kid, the athlete who pushes boundaries, and the person who refuses to let adversity win.”

The campaign aims to raise R350,000 to cover the transplant and associated medical expenses. So far, just over R35,000 has been raised and this brilliantly creative sign-on-wheels is helping bring much-needed attention to the cause.

What looked like drama is actually an act of support. It’s smart, cheeky, and speaks volumes about how South Africans show up for each other, especially when it matters most.

“This help will not only see me regain my health,” Grant says, “but will also allow me to continue being the active, present father my son deserves and the person who strives to make a positive impact in the world.”

So, if you spot that car around Fourways or elsewhere in Joburg, give it a smile, scan the code and share the story. Or donate to his crowdfunding campaign. Behind the headline is a real person, fighting for his life and doing it with bravery, creativity and the backing of a community that clearly cares.

Let’s help him cheat death. And keep living.

Sources: Grant Forbes Backabuddy | I Love Fourways 

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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 “Grant, You’re Cheating?!” – The Shocking Sign on a Joburg Car That’s Not What You Think appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Hope isn’t just a feeling… it’s action. And thanks to the kindness of South Africans, Jada Lubbe’s journey to life-changing treatment isn’t just possible, it’s fully funded, and then some.

Johannesburg, South Africa (17 March 2025) – South Africa, you did it again! Last week, we shared the incredible news that Jada Lubbe had been accepted into a groundbreaking clinical trial for Vanishing White Matter Disease – a rare condition that affects just 300 people worldwide. The challenge? Getting her there. The Jada Foundation turned to PledgePal, a brand-new crowdfunding platform, hoping to raise R150,000 for medical travel costs.

And today, we have the best update yet!

Not only has the fundraising target been reached, but it’s been exceeded! South Africans came together in a massive way, proving once again that when it comes to lifting each other up, we don’t just show up—we go all in.

For 13 years, Jada’s family searched for answers, facing a diagnosis that felt impossibly rare and overwhelmingly uncertain. But when news of a clinical trial surfaced, hope turned into action.

The Jada Foundation shared, “Finally, we can share our incredible news—news of joy, hope, and a future filled with possibilities!

Almost 13 years ago, our world changed forever when we first heard the words Vanishing White Matter Disease. It was a diagnosis that filled our hearts with uncertainty and fear.

But today, I get to share news that changes our lives once again—this time, for the better!

With all the hope in my heart, I am beyond grateful to announce that Jada has been accepted into a clinical trial for a groundbreaking treatment that has already shown incredible results.

On either March 12 or March 19, we will be boarding a plane to change Jada’s life.”

And thanks to the kindness of strangers, they’ll be doing so with the funds they need to make this journey a reality.

When we first introduced PledgePal, we knew it had potential to do good things. As a registered non-profit crowdfunding platform, its mission is simple: connect people in need (Pals) with generous donors (Pledgers).

“We believe generosity can create lasting change,” says Stephen Castle, Co-Founder and Director of PledgePal.

“Our mission is to make fundraising easy, trustworthy, and impactful for both donors and beneficiaries.”

And with Jada’s campaign not just meeting but surpassing its goal, PledgePal is already proving just how much impact it can have.

This is the kind of news we love sharing… stories where compassion turns into action and action turns into life-changing moments. Jada’s journey is just the beginning for PledgePal, and if this first campaign is anything to go by, many more lives are about to be changed for the better.

If you’re looking to support a cause, start a campaign, or simply see what PledgePal is all about, visit www.pledgepal.co.za. Because generosity isn’t just a word – it’s something you do. And when you do, magic happens.

Sources: PledgePal 

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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 Jada’s Fundraising Goal Smashed! Her Life-Changing Journey Begins! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

There’s usually one thing at the top of Nisha Varghese’s birthday list year after year: support for baby safe haven, Breathe of Life. Once again, Nisha dedicated her birthday to the babies in need. And once again, she blew the candles out by surpassing her fundraising goal, reminding us that the birthday blues might just be cured if we use the day as an excuse to do a little good.

East London, South Africa (10 March 2025) — As we get older, we tend to get more and more apprehensive about our birthdays. Some of us conceal our ages for as long as we can, only to be outed with a big banner screaming our real age, thanks to our well-meaning friends. Some might embrace the new era with self-deprecating jokes and an extra glass of wine. And some might ignite the midlife crisis no one was expecting (they’re only 30). Yes, the blues and birthdays are very real things. But what if there was a way to cure them that didn’t involve time travel or tequila?

The thing about ageing is that it’s actually a privilege. Despite the jokes, blockbuster movies still make. Despite every anti-ageing serum we’re sold. And despite our deepest fears.

Recently, Nisha Varghese celebrated the privilege of being alive and ageing superbly.

For years, Nisha has been a champion backing the charity Breath of Life based in East London. Breath of Life is a non-profit that offers abandoned and abused babies a safe and loving space until they find their forever homes or are reunited with family. Six little tots are cared for at a time to ensure they are given as much support as possible.

Nisha has spent years rallying support, raising awareness, and making sure she’s doing whatever is possible to give the non-profit help as they nurture these young lives. Her birthday, then, as Nisha puts it, is a time where she shamelessly uses the occasion of her birth to be of use to her children.

There’s something beautiful in the exchange—as she ages, she gives back to those decades behind her. Year after year.

Nisha recently surpassed her fundraising goal of R34 000 in honour of her 34th, set to be celebrated on 25 March. The fundraising goal has even been increased because of its success (you can find it here), which isn’t just a testament to people’s willingness to help a charity but to the community Nisha has built.

And the whole thing got us thinking.

When we shy away from our birthdays and ageing and the inevitable step closer to grey hair, we’re actually missing out on a chance to do something really good (and a really simple birthday gift option for our loved ones).

We might not be champions of causes to Nisha’s degree, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still be champions.

Perhaps the cure to birthday blues doesn’t lie in a magic cream, denial or something else we’ll probably be sold. Perhaps it lies in accepting the privilege of lapping another trip around the sun and then celebrating that lap by helping others along theirs.

Sources: Nisha Varghese; GTG 

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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 Birthday Fundraisers Might Just Cure the Blues: Inspired by Nisha  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Crowdfunding has changed countless lives in South Africa, offering hope where it’s needed most. Now, a new platform – PledgePal – is stepping up to make an even bigger impact, starting with Jada, a young girl fighting a rare disease.

Johannesburg, South Africa (10 March 2025) – For the past decade, crowdfunding has played a vital role in helping South Africans in need. From medical emergencies to community upliftment, platforms like BackaBuddy, Quicket, GivenGain and Thundafund have provided a lifeline for those who needed support the most. Good Things Guy has been at the forefront of amplifying these campaigns, sharing stories of resilience and hope.

Now, there’s a new name in the crowdfunding space – PledgePal – and we’re all for it. Because when it comes to giving, it’s never about competition; it’s about making sure help reaches those who need it most.

One of the first campaigns on PledgePal is for Jada, a young South African diagnosed with *Vanishing White Matter Disease – a condition so rare that only 300 people worldwide are known to have it. For 13 years, her family has faced the unimaginable, searching for a solution that didn’t seem to exist.

Until now.

The Jada Foundation recently shared an incredible update:

“Finally, we can share our incredible news—news of joy, hope, and a future filled with possibilities!

Almost 13 years ago, our world changed forever when we first heard the words Vanishing White Matter Disease. It was a diagnosis that filled our hearts with uncertainty and fear.

But today, I get to share news that changes our lives once again—this time, for the better!

With all the hope in my heart, I am beyond grateful to announce that Jada has been accepted into a clinical trial for a groundbreaking treatment that has already shown incredible results.

I still have to pinch myself—it doesn’t feel real that a treatment exists, let alone that my sweet girl will be receiving it.

On either March 12 or March 19, we will be boarding a plane to change Jada’s life.

We are giving her the chance at the life she deserves. My heart is still in shock—it doesn’t feel real yet. But maybe, once a few more pieces fall into place, I won’t need to pinch myself anymore. Because we will be on that plane, getting my baby the treatment she needs to live the beautiful life I have always promised her.”

To make this journey possible, PledgePal has helped raise over R27,000 towards the R150,000 goal… and they’re just getting started.

PledgePal, a registered non-profit crowdfunding platform, has officially launched last week, with a mission to connect people in need (Pals) with compassionate donors (Pledgers).

“We believe generosity can create lasting change,” says Stephen Castle, Co-Founder and Director of PledgePal.

“Our mission is to make fundraising easy, trustworthy, and impactful for both donors and beneficiaries.”

Kindness has the power to create real change and platforms like PledgePal are making it easier for South Africans to help one another. More crowdfunding options mean more opportunities, more generosity, and most importantly, more lives uplifted.

Jada’s story is just the start.

Visit www.pledgepal.co.za to start a campaign, make a pledge or support a cause that matters. Because every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a difference.

*Vanishing white matter (VWM) is also known as leukoencephalopathy with vanishing white matter disease, childhood ataxia with central nervous system hypomyelination (CACH), and myelinopathia centralis diffusa. VWM disease is a chronic and progressive white matter disorder (leukodystrophy) characterized by a variable phenotype, typically with prominent ataxia and spasticity in the classic form. VWM is often exacerbated by infection, head trauma, or other stresses.

Sources: PledgePal 

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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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The Rainbow Academy has kind people rallying in its favour to help it continue its mission of bringing performing arts and business education to young people from the poorest communities.

Cape Town, South Africa (04 March 2025) — The Rainbow Academy has long-served as a portal to opportunities for many young people in the Western Cape from underserved communities.

A non-profit school of Performing Arts and Business based in Cape Town, the Rainbow Academy has been pivotal in helping polish talents for longer than a decade.

 

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“Research shows that arts education can have a profound impact on academic performance, creativity, and critical thinking skills. And yet, many South African schools struggle to provide adequate arts programming due to lack of resources and funding. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing our students with opportunities to engage with the arts, and to connect with the rich cultural heritage of our country!” The Academy team share.

The school has helped students aged 18-25 access scholarships annually, providing them with education, training and acclaimed certification.

“We’ve been fortunate to partner with over twenty donors from South Africa, the US, UK, Norway, and Ireland and work with amazing facilitators and mentors who help guide our students,” shares CEO Imke du Toit.

However, as is the case for many local charities at present, rising costs have thrown a big spanner in the works for the Academy.

“Due to rising costs, we urgently need your support to continue this impact in 2025,” Imke says.

In good news, people have begun rallying to help The Rainbow Academy find its pot of gold.

To date, the community has raised R11,650 to help the school continue its mission!

While there is still a long way to go to reach the goal of R150 000, momentum has begun.

Those interested in supporting this niche and the futures of young South Africans can find out more about the crowdfund here, and more about the Rainbow Academy here.

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.

The post People Unite to Help The Rainbow Academy Find Its ‘Pot of Gold’ appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Shannon Rick, a family man with a heart for the bush, is once again undertaking the gruelling 100km Run for Rangers challenge in Zululand’s Babanango Game Reserve to support dedicated rangers.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (18 February 2025) – A devoted family man with a deep love for the African bush, Shannon Rick will take on the 100km Run for Rangers challenge through the heart of Zululand’s Babanango Game Reserve. Why? To support the tireless work of these frontline conservation heroes.

The father of three has a deep connection to wildlife, which is the main motivation behind his commitment to the 100km race for a second time.

Last year, he took on Project Rhino’s Run for Rangers and despite the immense physical and mental demands, it was an experience he will never forget.

This year, he is preparing to take on the extreme fundraising run once again, determined to raise awareness and funds for the rangers who protect Africa’s wildlife.

Without the everyday heroes of the bush, our wildlife—big and small—would be in great jeopardy if left at the mercy of relentless poachers. Our wild spaces would not be what they are today without their efforts.

That is why supporting their invaluable work is so close to Shannon’s heart as someone who considers the African bush as more than just a place; but his sanctuary.

Shannon’s philosophy is simple yet powerful:

“We have the power to create change and preserve our wildlife for future generations.”

To support his run and fundraiser, visit the Sport for Lives crowdfunding page.

Sources: Sport for Lives

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.

The post Shannon Rick Does His Part to Protect Africa’s Wildlife Heroes by Taking On 100km Run for Rangers appeared first on Good Things Guy.