When 15-year-old Daniel Hyams was diagnosed with leukaemia, his world turned upside down… but what happened next proved that love, unity and the unshakable spirit of South Africans can light up even the darkest days.
Johannesburg, South Africa (18 April 2025) – When Robin van Rensburg shared the story of his family’s journey through his son’s leukaemia diagnosis, he did more than open up about a harrowing chapter, he reminded us of the strength we find in each other when times are tough and what it means to stand together.
In November 2024, Robin and Julie’s 15 year old son, Daniel Hyams, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. What started as a routine checkup for flu-like symptoms quickly became every parent’s worst nightmare. Doctors acted swiftly, starting aggressive treatment.
As the U16 Rugby Captain at HeronBridge College, Daniel was no stranger to facing challenges head-on. Only this time, the field was different — and the goal was clear.
By March 2025, after extensive treatment, the family received the news they had been hoping for – Daniel was clear of Leukaemia, but the road there was anything but smooth.
The side-effects were brutal. Daniel lost 11 kilograms in just 11 days. His hair fell out and his entire body broke out in spots. A particularly tough blow for any teenage boy trying to hold on to normality to endure. Just as the family were catching their breath, a medication error landed Daniel in ICU with dangerously high blood sugar levels that could have cost him his life.
And yet, this is where the heart of the story truly begins.
In their darkest moments, Daniel and his family were held by a wave of love and solidarity. His U16 rugby teammates – brothers both on and off the field – stepped up in a way few could have imagined. Leading the charge was Coach Dumi, who shaved off eight years of carefully grown dreadlocks in support of Daniel’s journey. A number of Daniel’s closest friends and teammates followed suit, braving the clippers in solidarity with their friend – a powerful gesture for any teen, let alone a group of 15-year-old boys. The team’s jerseys were customised with Daniel’s initials and the orange ribbon symbolising leukaemia awareness – worn with pride.
At the Invitational Sports Day hosted at HeronBridge College, Daniel was honoured in a moment that left many in tears. Just a day out of hospital, he walked onto the field flanked by his teammates, met with banners bearing his name and a scoreboard dedicated entirely to him.
The support didn’t stop at the school gates.
Robin’s colleagues at Bidvest wrapped their arms around the family, ensuring he could step away from work for nearly seven weeks to be present with his son. Senior management didn’t just keep things running – they stepped into Robin’s shoes so he could focus where it mattered most. At their year-end function, every member of the leadership team proudly sprayed their hair orange in a show of support for Daniel. It was a simple act, but one that spoke volumes.
Julie, too, was met with extraordinary kindness. When she had to step away from her business, WAXIT Lonehill, her manager and team of therapists didn’t hesitate to step up, keeping everything running smoothly so Julie could focus entirely on Daniel.
The couple remains overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from their communities including family, friends and co-workers. In true South African spirit, people reached out to help.
Daniel’s journey is not yet over. He continues to receive treatment and, all going well, is expected to enter the maintenance phase in mid-2025 — a crucial two-year window. But the prognosis is positive.
The medical support from both Dr Skosana of Olivedale Netcare, who first diagnosed Daniel and then managed his ICU stay with diabetes and Dr Phillipa Ashmore of Pretoria East Netcare, his Haematologist have been incredible. Both have been absolute pillars of strength to Daniel and the family throughout his journey.
As for Daniel? He is positive, strong-willed, and a true symbol of resilience. He remains determine to overcome every obstacle thrown in his path
His story is not only one of survival, but of a community who showed what it truly means to stand together. It’s a story of heart, hope, and humanity.
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