A 74-year-old hiker trapped in the remote and not-to-be-reckoned-with Elands River Mouth was rescued against every odd that made for one of the most trying and rewarding rescues.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (28 May 2025) — Against every odd, a 74-year-old senior hiker made it out of a remote gorge in the Eastern Cape thanks to a team who took a risk to save a life.

Last month, the senior hiker had taken a fall upstream of the Elands River Mouth, Grootkrans. She had fallen and injured herself hours before she could get in touch with help. However, this would be no ordinary rescue.

When NSRI Station Commander Lodewyk Van Rensburg got the call, he immediately knew it would be tough. Getting to the Elands River Mouth is its own mission, given the limited access by road. Once you do manage to get there, you’re met with a gorge boasting steep and sharp cliffs, not to mention a surf even the most ambitious water warriors avoid. Winds are also tough, and on a bad day, fog sets stubbornly, as was the case on the day of the rescue. Not to mention, nighttime was nearing.

All of these factors betted against the hiker’s survival, and all were present the day she needed help. However, the NSRI Oyster Bay team braved it all to pull off the unthinkable, bringing her home.

According to Lodewyk, winds were blowing at 30 knots while the sea climbed to 4 metres. No helicopter support was avaliable to the rescuers, so all they could rely on was their rescue craft and their courage.

“Luckily, we caught water going in,” Lodewyk shares of how the rescuers manager to get into the gorge via crossing a sandbank.

In the gorge, the team located the fallen hiker and had to swim her toward the rescue vessel using a backboard. This, because no paramedics could accompany the rescue team given the tough terrain that was decided not to be conducive for carrying gear.

Just when things were looking up, a new issue arose that made exiting its own challenge, the boat had gotten stuck on the sandbank, prohibiting a swift goodbye to the gorge.

“We stood there for 15 minutes. I asked the crew how they felt, and they said, ‘It’s now’, recalls Lodewyk. The team timed their run between wave swells to catch the right wave and get out. “The second wave broke underneath the boat. We only just made it.”

Hope was finally tangible again as the vessel made its way 12 nautical miles to shore.

At around 9pm, the rescue of a lifetime came to its end. With landing lights set up by Ian Gray of the NSRI’s Regional Operations Support Committee, light quite literally shone at the end of the tunnel.

The hiker was suspected to have spinal injuries and hints of hypothermia. However, her chances of survival were hugely influenced by the work of the brave people who risked their own safety that day.

“To be quite honest, I think the risk that we took was very high,” Lodewyk said of heading out into the gorge. “But when the doctor told us that if we hadn’t taken her out that night, she may not have made it — it kind of changed the whole perspective.”

This rescue is considered one of the most demanding rescue operations in recent times for NSRI Station 36 Oyster Bay. But, it should also be considered one of their proudest!

Sources: NSRI 

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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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In 2022, Brittany McCormick pushed herself to learn to walk after her wheelchair broke (she has Cerebral Palsy). She aimed to tackle 100kms, and ended up walking 200kms to raise funds for children with disabilities. Years on, and Brittany’s journey has positively blossomed:

Cape Town, South Africa (28 May 2025) — In 2022, Brittany McCormick caught South Africa’s attention when she decided to walk 100kms after her wheelchair broke. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at a young age, her wheelchair was how she moved through the world. When it broke, Brittany realised just how reliant she was on it, and how much of a game-changer raising funds for wheelchairs would be for those who desperately need them but simply don’t have the means to buy wheels of their own.

Inspired by her own struggle without her wheelchair, Brittany did an incredible thing. She set a goal to walk 100kms to raise funds for children with disabilities, and ended up walking 200kms.

Since then, Brittany has seen her journey blossom and some of her brightest dreams have come true.

In her words!

From Survival to Significance: My Journey as a Motivational Speaker

Some of you may know me from a previous feature on Good Things Guy, and for those who don’t—hello! I’m Brittany McCormick, and I believe with all my heart that a life filled with purpose is one worth fighting for. So much has changed since my last incredible moment in the spotlight, and I feel deeply honoured to share what’s unfolded in my life since becoming a motivational speaker. But before we get into the extraordinary experiences of recent years, allow me to take you back a little.

A Premature Beginning

I was born at 25 weeks—so tiny, so fragile, and with a future that felt uncertain. Doctors weren’t sure if I would survive, and even if I did, they weren’t confident I’d be able to live independently. At one year old, I was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition that affects movement, posture, and muscle coordination. But despite that diagnosis, my parents made a life-altering decision: they would raise me to be as independent and strong as possible.

That decision shaped my life. It meant tough love, big challenges, and endless determination. But most importantly, it meant that my condition would not define my dreams.

And I cannot talk about this journey without speaking about my parents—the pillars of my life. My mom and dad have been my greatest encouragers, my unwavering support system, and my guiding lights. They’ve fought battles beside me, carried me through my lowest moments, and stood with me in every victory. They are my confidants, my teachers, and the foundation of the woman I am today. I am beyond blessed to have them in my life, along with the love and support of my sister and brothers who have also walked this journey with me every step of the way.

Schooling, Struggles and Finding My Voice

I spent many years in a special needs school, where I received support—but I also faced real challenges. Emotionally, I struggled. Academically, I wasn’t thriving. My parents eventually made the decision to homeschool me, hoping a more tailored environment would work better. But even that came with its own trials.

Still, I had a dream. I wanted to be a motivational speaker. I wanted to use my voice to inspire others, to tell people that they can do hard things, of beating the odds—just like I had been doing my whole life.

Eventually, I enrolled in a public speaking course. That course didn’t just teach me how to speak—it taught me how to believe in myself. I learned how to share my story with power, clarity, and confidence. I discovered my message. And most of all, I discovered my purpose.

The 200km Breakthrough

Then came a test of resilience unlike any other. My wheelchair broke, and suddenly, a crucial tool I relied on every day was gone. But rather than retreat in defeat, I leaned into the moment. I launched a campaign—not only to raise funds for a new wheelchair, but to give back to the community that had always supported me.

I set a goal to walk 100 kilometers. It was ambitious. It was bold. And it was bigger than just me. Step by step, day by day, I pushed myself through pain and perseverance. And six months later, I had walked 200 kilometers.

The campaign caught the attention of people across the country. I was featured in the press and on various media platforms. What started as a crisis turned into a national message of hope, showing what’s possible when faith meets effort.

Doors Begin to Open

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at events, churches, and organisations across South Africa. I’ve spoken for the Growth Credo team, Ladies of All Nations South Africa, Life Streams International Church, Rock Mining Components, and the Insure Group. I’ve also shared my message through interviews on platforms like The Red Corner Show, Tina Talks, and Creative Space.

Radio stations like Radio Pulpit and CCFM have featured my story. I was blessed to be the August 2024 cover woman for Joy Magazine and was also featured in Karoo Sisters online magazine. Podcasts like The Different Way of Seeing and The Qotivated Podcast welcomed me to speak about my journey and my faith.

It hasn’t stopped there. I’ve had the honor of being invited by organizations such as the Subrena Love Foundation, Joy Magazine’s partners, and even networks of women in business. And all of this—every single opportunity—has grown from the seeds of a dream I refused to let go of.

The Heart Behind the Hustle

Let me be clear: chasing your dreams is not easy. There are days when it feels impossible. There are days when people don’t believe in you, or you don’t believe in yourself. But I’m here to tell you it’s worth it.

It’s worth every tear, every late night, every unanswered message, every “no,” and every moment of doubt. Because when you keep showing up, and when you trust God to open doors that no person can close, your life begins to reflect His glory.

I’m still growing, learning, and reaching for more. But one thing I know for sure is that I’m committed to being a motivation both on and off the stage—whether I’m speaking to a crowd of hundreds or encouraging someone one-on-one. Every interaction matters. Every life matters.

What’s Next?

My journey is far from over. I still have so much I want to do, so many people I want to reach. I hope to continue sharing my story, not just as a testimony of survival, but as a testament to the power of hope, purpose, and faith.

I want people to know that life’s hardest challenges can become the foundation for your greatest victories.

To anyone reading this who feels stuck, uncertain, or discouraged—I see you. I’ve been there. But if I’ve learned anything on this journey, it’s this: You are stronger than you know. And your story isn’t over yet.
Keep walking.

Sources: Brittany McCormick

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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 Survival to Significance: Brittany McCormick’s Inspiring Journey  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A devastating mass poisoning event impacted numerous vultures in the Kruger National Park. But heroes and hope prevailed when many of the birds’ lives were saved. Now, 18 vultures have successfully been released!

Kruger National Park, South Africa (19 May 2025) — Earlier this month, a devastating mass poisoning event impacted vultures in the Kruger National Park.

After suspicious activity was flagged in a remote section of the park early on 6 May, the heartbreaking scene revealed itself with hundreds of vultures affected. Thanks to the joint teamwork of SANParks rangers and Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) officials, along with support teams from Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Briner Veterinary Services and Wildscapes Veterinary Service, 84 vultures were able to be rescued alive.

The poisoning is said to have been the result of an elephant carcass laced with highly toxic agrochemical pesticides, poison laid by poachers to harvest body parts for the illegal wildlife trade. This event is shorthand for the rising threat of poison poaching that is impacting wildlife across Southern Africa.

However, heroes who acted quickly and the hope that guided their efforts have prevailed. In a good news update from the terrible event, the first group of vulture survivors were successfully released back into the wild on 15 May following incredible rehabilitation work.

As the Endangered Wildlife Trust shared along with video confirmation of the release, “these birds are among the survivors of one of the most severe vulture poisoning events ever recorded in South Africa. Their release marks a key milestone in a larger recovery effort still underway.”

The clip of the vultures flying high once more is a powerful visual. It’s a reminder that even when tragedy strikes, it does not dictate the end of the story.

Watch: 18 Vultures Fly High Once Again

Sources: Endangered Wildlife Trust 

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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.

The post First Survivors Released into the Wild Post-Mass Poisoning Event  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

After a three-year hiatus from competitive lifesaving, 25 year old Amica de Jager has made a sensational return to the sport, claiming a prestigious title at the 2025 National Lifesaving Championships!

South Africa (14 May 2025) — Competitive lifesaving recently welcomed the triumphant return of Amica de Jager following a three-year hiatus from the sport.

Amica, a renowned open water swimmer, delivered a remarkable all-round performance across both Pool and Surf events, securing gold medals in the Run Swim Run, Surf Swim, Board Rescue, and Tube Rescue. She also placed second in the Iron event and delivered strong top-eight finishes in both Board and Surfski disciplines and claimed the prestigious Victrix Ludorum title at the 2025 National Lifesaving Championships! 

For Amica, her comeback meant the world to her.

“I was very nervous coming back after such a long break, but I couldn’t have asked for a better Nationals. I loved every second of it,” the champ shares.

The six-day competition showcased her versatility and endurance, including a standout performance in the pool where she achieved personal bests, OPEX (Operation Excellence) times, and helped her club, Clifton Lifesaving, dominate the relay events, winning three out of four.

Known for her ability to straddle two elite sporting codes, the Velocity Trade Ambassador continues to chase excellence in both open water swimming and lifesaving.

“Lifesaving and swimming go hand in hand,” Amica says. “One is individual, the other is team-based — and together they make me a stronger, more complete athlete.”

However, Amica’s campaign was not without its challenges, both physical and emotional, but through strategic recovery techniques including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, consistent rest, and the valuable experience gained from the Western Cape’s Rescue Sport Series, she found her stride.

“The biggest hurdle was believing I could return to form. But the series gave me the confidence and preparation I needed.”

Looking ahead, Amica has her sights set on international waters. She will compete at the Blu Smooth Kromme Descent, before representing South Africa at the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. 

Later this year, she plans to race on the World Aquatics Open Water World Cup circuit, and hopes to be re-selected for the South African Lifesaving team set to compete at the International Surf Rescue Challenge in New Zealand.

A role model for young athletes, Amica shares the following advice:

“I want young athletes, especially girls, to know that anything is possible. Don’t let others define your limits. Compete hard, love your competition, and make friends along the way — that’s what makes sport truly special.”

Sources: Supplied—Christina Mallion

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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 Amica de Jager’s Makes a Golden Return to Lifesaving! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

When Jay-Lee’s primary school shut its doors for good, many farm children like her were faced with uncertainty. But something incredible happened in the nick of time. And without it, Jay-Lee may never have become the young adult on her way to becoming a teacher!

Overberg, South Africa (01 May 2025) — At just 18 years old, Jay-Lee is an inspiring example of resilience, ambition, and quiet determination. Born and raised on Diepgat Farm, she has one older and one younger brother and lives with her family in the close-knit farming community she has always called home.

Jay-Lee had attended the local government school, Diepgat Primary. However, when she was 12, Diepgat Primary officially closed due to funding issues.

Just like that, the educational future of many children from nearby farms, including Jay-Lee, was left anxiously uncertain.

However, it did not last long, thanks to NPO, the Pebbles Project, which stepped in and established the Pebbles Academy. The Pebbles Academy is an independent school providing quality education to children from Grade R to Grade 7 from around 40 neighbouring farms, including Diepgat. For many young learners, the Academy has been a lifeline. For Jay-Lee, it quickly became more than just a school and, rather, a second home.

“It was amazing,” she reflects. “The staff at the Academy were always so friendly. And even to this day, they are willing to help us where they can.”

There were teachers at the Academy who left a deep impression on Jay-Lee. Their passion for education and their care for the learners sparked something in her, something that would end up shaping the dreams she had for her future.

“They made me want to be a teacher. I saw how they inspired us, and I want to do the same for others.”

After finishing high school (in the top five of her class, no less), Jay-Lee was accepted to university but had to postpone her studies due to financial challenges. Instead, she made the decision to work and save for her studies, taking a job as a hospitality host at a local winery.

“It was out of my comfort zone,” she admits. “I’ve never found it easy to speak up or interact with people. But just a few months in, I feel more confident and see this as preparation for becoming a teacher,” a positive Jay-Lee adds.

Her family couldn’t be prouder. “My parents sometimes feel disheartened that they can’t always support me financially in the way they wish they could. But their love and encouragement have never once wavered.”

When asked what Pebbles Project means to her, Jay-Lee speaks with quiet conviction:

“Without Pebbles, I honestly wouldn’t be where I am now. When Diepgat Primary closed, they were there. No one expected it, and no one knew what to do, but Pebbles did. They came to save us.”

The Pebbles Project team is immensely proud of Jay-Lee’s perseverance and strength, sharing that they know she will go on to achieve her dream of becoming a teacher and ultimately inspire the next generation just as she was once inspired.

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.

The post She Once Lost Her School. Now, Jay-Lee Dreams of Being a Teacher appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Caster Semenya recently sat down for a powerful conversation and the chance to share powerful lessons at Harvard, where she was a keynote speaker for the globally acclaimed Women in Power Conference!

Global (15 April 2025) — South African sports legend Caster Semenya recently made her way to Harvard University for the kind of experience she described as a dream turned to reality.

Last weekend, the Olympic Gold Medalist was a part of the globally acclaimed Harvard Kennedy School’s annual Women in Power Conference. Here, the athlete proudly took the stage as a keynote speaker—another feather in her cap that solidifies her as not only a champion, but a leader to look up to and learn from.

Caster—who is no stranger to reimagining power or building legacies—was more than an apt choice of speaker and lesson sharer under the theme of the Conference: ‘Reimagining Power: Building a New Legacy’.

There, important conversations were had to do with a more inclusive landscape across different silos of influence, including sport.

Flame Bearers described Caster’s talk alongside fellow Olympian, fencer Lauren Scruggs, beautifully, as follows:

“[It was a] powerful fireside chat on resilience, identity, and what it means to lead with purpose, even when the world tells you to sit down. Caster’s story reminded us that breaking records is one thing. Breaking barriers? That’s legacy.”

Seeing a South African lead such important conversations in places where the world listens is its own kind of gold medal for all of us back home. As Caster adds, this experience is a reminder that anything is possible.

In terms of failure, the powerhouse also shared wise words on overcoming them:

“You never let your failures define your destination,” Caster shared—food for thought we can all take with us on the long road to our own dreams.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Flame Bearers I Media Co. Stories of Elite Women Athletes (@flamebearers)

Sources: Flame Bearers, Caster Semenya 

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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.

The post Caster Semenya Shares Powerful Lessons at Harvard! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Craig View Veterinary Clinic have extended their Easter Egg drive until today following cracked plans and donation targets that fell short. Despite the disappointment, the team are doing everything it can to hatch hope for their charities with one last push.

Boksburg, South Africa (14 April 2025) — The Craig View Veterinary Clinic have been working overtime to hatch hope for their 2025 Easter Egg drive.

Their social media pages have posted non-stop, they’ve shared every update of a new donated box of marshmallow Easter Eggs, called on pilots, staged a heist featuring Cola the dog and even had Munchkin the very tortoise slow tortoise call in some favours.

Read: This is a team that worked very hard to fundraise for their charities.

But despite all their creativity, efforts and clever campaigns that rival those of big marketing houses, Sunday evening came by and the team had to face the facts once again that they were short many boxes—some 1864 boxes off their goal of 4000 at that.

Heads in hands, the team decided to give the Easter Egg drive (or rather, hunt at this point) one final push, extending the deadline for donations to today, 14 April.

“We cannot let our charities down,” the practice said. 

As such, today marks the last day to support not only the charities they’ve made commitments to with a little Easter treat, but also the practice’s determination.

Good news has come already, thanks to SAINTS Animal Charity, who made a serious donation to boost the non-perishable food items part of the Easter Drive.

If another charity can come to the party, then we’re sure more South Africans can.

How to Hatch Hope for this Easter Egg Drive

At the time of this article’s writing, the team needed 1842 boxes of Easter Eggs. If you live in or near Boksburg, you can make an egg drop off at their spot on 44 Reier Road, Atlasville.

If that’s a mission, simply EFT the team so they can buy the eggs themselves, on your behalf via:

Craig View Vet Inc 

Rmb private bank (FNB)

Account no: 62671688607

Branch code 250655

Reference: Easter eggs

Don’t forget to email a proof of your donation to accounts@craigview.co.za.

Sources: Craig View Veterinary Clinic; 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.

The post Cracked Plans, or Hope Yet to Hatch? Vet Team Call for Easter Kindness  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

If ‘mind over matter’ was a person, it’s Martine Levy. Just in time for her 50th birthday, Martine completed 50 triathlons – Multiple Sclerosis be damned. Martine has opened up to Good Things Guy to share her incredible story (she kept her diagnosis somewhat secret for years), and if you needed a little inspiration to remind you that some mountains exist to show others they can be moved, this is it.

Cape Town, South Africa (23 March 2025) — Martine Levy kept her Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis under the rug for years. Many people didn’t know about it when she entered into a triathlon the very next day following the doctor’s appointment she’ll never forget. Nor did they know when she tackled the Iron Man Half Marathon (and many other triathlons in between).

When Martine challenged herself to completing 50 triathlons before her 50th birthday, only her loved ones knew she’d be tackling it with MS. And Martine is the first to credit their support as the reason she managed to achieve this remarkable feat.

Now, Martine is sharing her story publicly for the first time. And if you needed a little inspiration to remind you that some mountains exist to show others they can be moved, this is it:

An MS Journey as Told by Martine Levy

The 40th That Changed Everything

10 years ago, on my 40th birthday (literally the day before I turned 40), I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.

I had been really sporty for the past years, previously having earned my SA colours in Muay Thai and having done a few triathlons, some half marathons, and a couple of half Ironmans, but in training for the last 70.3 Ironman, things had become “challenging”. But no matter how hard I trained, I was getting slower. When I overheated, I was losing concentration, feeling disorientated, having to cut training short, and feeling completely over-fatigued. All the while, I thought it was due to overtraining.

My 2014 Half Ironman attempt was disheartening. After pushing as hard as I could and giving it everything I had, I missed the cutoff. Again. I thought I would have to train harder.

Something was off. I knew it was. My speech was a bit odd, I had a bit of a slur at times, my handwriting became very untidy, my face was feeling numb, my tongue was numb, my arm felt lame.

“I must have a pinched nerve”, I thought.

It was my brother—one of my biggest cheerleaders—that noticed there was something amiss and after a fair amount of persuasion (I did try and ignore it) I went off to the neurologist.

The MRI was clear as day—Multiple Sclerosis.

‘Huh? No. Not me’.

I didn’t quite believe it. I asked every imaginable question. What were the possible outcomes? Would I lose my mind? What was in my future? Mobility issues, spasms, pain, weakness, fatigue, tremors, balance issues, a wheelchair? I consulted Google (Don’t do this), but the outlook seemed bleak. Or was it?

I was entered into a triathlon for the very next day. I went from the doctor to tell my mom, and then I collected my race pack. I raced the next day, and that night, I celebrated my 40^th birthday with my friends, wearing something that covered my shaky hand.

Keep Moving

I got it into my head that if I kept moving, I would keep moving. I convinced myself that I could train my brain to find new neural pathways to combat my balance issues, my mobility issues, my fatigue.

The next few years were ups and downs of changing medications, daily injections, MRI scans, days in hospital with intravenous treatments, making life choices in my doctor’s office every time the MRI showed another lesion, and another, and another, as the years rolled on.

‘I don’t really have MS’, I kept thinking. ‘It is all an elaborate ploy. It’s not real. I am fine’.

I wound carry on racing and doing bigger and more challenging races. I thought that I was proving to everyone who knew of my illness that I was OK, I am fine, it’s all ok. But, in reality, I was convincing myself. I can do this. I can do it all.

No One Does It Alone

I didn’t do it alone. My tribe of friends that I trusted to know my secret (that I was not bulletproof, and I was scared) all stepped up. They were all in, all the way. Not just behind me cheering, but by my side as I trained, as I raced, as I triumphed, as I failed.

When I needed to cycle, there was Natalie on the bike next to me, peddling at my slow pace when she could have easily gone faster, staying with me when I had to stop because my legs went numb or I had a bad day and landed up getting sick mid-cycle.

There was no pity. Just, “You ok? Lets go!”

Every open water swim training session (swimming around me like a Border Collie) Natalie made sure I was safe.

Jody was too fast for me, having done multiple Ironmans, Cape Epic and various other events.

Each time I mentioned I was keen on a triathlon, so was he. Every triathlon I entered, Jody entered, running his own race but keeping an eye on me as he went past, coming back to find me after he finished, making sure I was ok. Helping me pack up my gear afterwards when I was somewhat broken.

He remained by my side when an MS hug got me during a triathlon, and I was struggling to make it back to safety, sacrificing my own race to ensure I made it safely back to the race village.

I came last in races—STONE LAST–more than once, more than 10 times. I have come last in quite a few of my triathlons–even though I have been at it for around 14 years.

I cried during races…often, it hurt, a lot. There is a fair amount of pain that accompanies Multiple Sclerosis, for me—especially when I am hot and tired. Races were painful, but there was my friend Jody, along the way and at the finish. My race buddy. Always.

What Would Mart Do?

My very favourite thing is to convince my friends to come along and do some of my mad pursuits with me—it became a joke of “What would Mart do?”.

I convinced friends to run 10km runs with me, to do a marathon with me in Paris, to enter triathlons, to swim Robben Island, I mean, who wants to be out there alone?

We made ‘WWMD T shirts’ (what would Mart do). They might have thought I was convincing them, but they were inspiring me. If they could do it – so could I.

50 Triathlons Before 50

After completing 35 triathlons, I got an idea stuck in my head. In my head, I would be 50 soon, I could do 50 Triathlons by then. What person with MS can possibly do such a thing? I could – I knew I could, and it would become a driving force for me. The thought of losing my mobility one day and the possibility of a wheelchair, which I had unfortunately latched onto, would be beaten.

I would prove to myself once and for all that I could win my very personal race. There is no cure for MS at present, but there are treatments and there is hope and I had hope. And I had a wonderful support group.

Covid hit and we lost over a year of racing. I had just 13 months to complete 10 triathlons. Jody was up for it. We trawled the race calendars, finding any triathlon (big or small) we entered them all.

I decided to go for broke for the last one—the half-Ironman distance. ‘Finish on a high note’, I thought.

I had attempted Half Ironman 5 times and not finished in cutoff. I was always too slow. But only just. I would be putting all my eggs in one basket, so to speak… but, no guts, no glory. Go big.

Training with MS is a little different. The challenges of fatigue, speed, strength and balance are not in your favour. Getting faster or stronger is not really realistic for me.

There were days when my head played games with me – What was I doing? Had I bitten off more than I could chew? Days of feeling exhausted and looking at a training day thinking, ‘I just can’t’, but somehow did—even if it wasn’t the whole session, I would do what I could.

The Final Countdown

49 triathlons down, 3 x Marathons, 2 x Robben Island swims – and it was not enough for me. The Half-Ironman would make it real—I would finally prove to myself that I had won. I was in remission. Doc gave me the go-ahead. GAME ON. BRING ME THAT FINISH LINE.

Jody stood beside me on the start line.  “It’s just another race,” he said – Yeah.. right.. what the hell was I thinking?

The conditions were less than favourable; it was a brutal day out with “gale force winds” (maybe not gale force – but brutal). I made it through the swim, 1.9km, in my target time; I got onto the bike and started strong. The wind was picking up, but it was behind me.

I hit the 35km mark. I was making good time, the climbs and wind were ahead, and then, the first big climb. I stood up to push and BAM! Something went in my back and my left leg went numb.

It was a bulging disk. All my power disappeared. The cycle that should have taken me 4hrs took 5hrs 26min±I was not going to make it in the cutoff. My leg was done. I was broken. I sobbed on the bike for the last 10km, in pain, my head swirling with so many mad thoughts.

There was no way I could run. I sat in transition, with the stark realisation that the dream was shattered. I couldn’t stop the tears.

But I could walk.

Just start… I had to try, just 21km to the finish line.  At around the 7km Mark – there was Jody & Kelly, herself a regular on the podium at Ironman races, and my IronMan mentor, walking beside me, supporting me and keeping me going. I crossed the finish line at 10H42, possibly a record for the longest-ever half-ironman. Completing my 50^th Triathlon – 6 days before I turned 50.

In the End, the Race is Only With Yourself

For years, I have kept my diagnosis somewhat secret, trusting those closest to me. Why? I was afraid of being judged somehow, I didn’t want pity, I felt this was my battle to fight and to conquer alone. That people would doubt my abilities if they knew. People can be cruel, and the words “debilitating and degenerative” scare people they don’t understand.

I was fearful of being different. But I am one of the very lucky ones. I have had amazing support from my family and wonderful friends. I have an amazing doctor who has guided and supported me.

So, that is my story. I have chosen to let people in on my secret here because I realise that I am winning my battle. I needed to prove to myself that it’s all still possible.

I would like to encourage those out there battling MS to keep moving, even if the steps are small. My challenge was 50 triathlons by 50, some MS warriors battles are 50 steps in a day.

The Ironman slogan is “anything is possible”. But as Baz Lurman says: “The race is long and in the end, it is only with yourself”.

I hope to be on the start line of another 70.3 Ironman again soon, and I hope to be able to convince a few more people to come along with me for the ride.

Sources: Email Submission—Martine Levy

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The post What Would Martine Do? 50 Triathlons By Her 50th Birthday With MS, That’s What! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Shihaam is a mother and the sole provider for her family. Once struggling with addiction, she found herself finding hope through fixing broken appliances. Slowly but surely, her life began to follow in repair.

Bonteheuwel, South Africa (10 March 2025) — 46-year-old Shihaam Benjamin was once a struggling addict with many responsibilities. Despite the cracks in her life, she always found herself fixing broken items around the house. Years later, this knack would become the very thing that helped her repair her own world.

In 2023, Shihaam joined the Taking Care of Business Repair Programme. Here, people are trained to support the circular economy and learn how to fix broken items like appliances donated by large retailers. Not only do they put in the elbow grease to repair that which struggles to be recycled, but they are also taught how to build their own business reliant on selling what they fix. On top of this, participants are also supported with life skills.

“I don’t talk much, but joining the programme helped me find another part of myself,” shares Shihaam. “I was always the one to fix things at home—phones, appliances—and when I found out there was a business side to repair, I was really interested.”

“My household is large,” Shihaam adds. “15 people in total, including my husband, my father, my five children, and my brother and his children too. We are very close; everyone helps each other out. Things are expensive and it’s a real struggle to provide for everyone, but I do my best and TCB has been a huge help in managing that.”

Not only did the programme give Shihaam a means to support her family as the sole provider, it also played a big part in her journey to getting clean.

“Before joining TCB, I was struggling with addiction and was unable to provide adequately for my family. Today, I am stronger and more stable, thanks to the support and guidance I found here,” she says.

Shihaam had used drugs for 20 years and now boasts two years of sobriety.

“My journey to sobriety wasn’t easy, but it was necessary to build a better life for my children and myself. I am the sole provider for our family. My husband and I had our problems and I was on the verge of asking for a divorce. One day after a particularly traumatic incident, I ended up at TCB, crying.

“The people here listened to me and helped me open up. It was the first time I spoke about my situation openly, and everyone here supported me. They gave me the space to express my struggles and find solutions. It was such a relief to not feel alone in my journey,” says Shihaam.

Mentors and counsellors are an important part of TCB’s programmes, helping participants overcome adversity that had once held them back in life. The TCB team explain that dealing with personal challenges and past traumas is one of the most crucial aspects of the programme.

“At TCB, I found a space where I could express myself and be heard. The support system here is incredible, and it’s helped me gain confidence and a voice. I now know how to handle setbacks without letting them take me back to using drugs again,” Shihaam says.

“I’ve learned to speak openly about my past and my struggles without fear of judgment. I have learnt the importance of self-care and setting goals. It’s about finding out what I want from life and not being afraid of working hard to get it. They helped me understand that nothing is impossible if I keep moving forward. I’ve learned about myself personally – how to manage my emotions, my stress, and my problems.”

Now, Shihaam is passing on her business knowledge to her children.

“I recently bought my son a hair-cutting machine, and he’s started his own business. I talk to my children about what I’ve learned in business classes about buying, selling, and managing money. Hopefully, I am creating opportunities for them as well. It’s been empowering to see my family grow with me, learning new skills and becoming more self-reliant,” she says.

As for herself, Shihaam puts it beautifully:

“For the first time, I’m allowing myself to dream.”

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.

The post How Fixing Broken Appliances Helped Shihaam Repair Her Life  appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The SPCA Midrand has a small team representing them at the 947 Cycle Challenge this year. But, what the team lacked in extra legs, they made up for with lots of heart. Together, the four cyclists raised over R40,000!

Midrand, South Africa (04 December 2024) — Sometimes strength in numbers is surpassed by strength of character, and one small team certainly proved this for the SPCA Midrand.

This year’s Pedal 4 Paws cycling squad saw fewer cyclists partake in the 94.7 Cycle Challenge as representatives and fundraisers for the SPCA. While this could’ve been viewed as a disappointment, it was instead translated into a challenge; an opportunity to do something exceptional without a big team on the road.

The participating members (legends Michelle Adlkofer, Dayalan Naidoo, Prishen Moodley and Mohammed Akabot) made up for what the team lacked in extra legs with an abundance of determination and excess heart.

Together, they rallied and united their respective and collective supporters to make the most of their efforts on 17 November. And make the most they did.

Proudly donning the SPCA’s cycling jerseys, they took the roads of Joburg on like superstars to a handsome sum.

As the SPCA Midrand proudly shares:

“This team went above and beyond to rally for funding from their family, friends and colleagues and raised a whopping R42 247 for our SPCA!”

To put how fantastic this is into perspective, cyclists riding for the SPCA Midrand were challenged to raise a minimum of R2,000. These four cyclists outdid themselves with full colours!

As the SPCA expressed with utmost gratitude, their small team exceeded all expectations. Thanks to them, festive financial worries will be far less apparent, and a lot of animals will now be able to get the support they so urgently need.

Sources: SPCA Midrand 

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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.

The post Small Team of Peddlers Make a Mighty Difference; Raise Essential Funds appeared first on Good Things Guy.