Walk with us and make an impact

Entries now open for 2024 Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer presented by ISUZU Motors South Africa

Lace up and enter the annual Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer presented by ISUZU MOTORS South Africa.

The event remains true to its cause and is held to increase cancer awareness.

In 2024 it will raise funds for CHOC, the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa,St Bernard’s Hospice in East London, and St Francis Hospice in Nelson Mandela Bay.

Over the past 10 years the event has raised more than R4 million for cancer charities, with participants walking around eight million steps in support of those affected by cancer.

For the 26th annual Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer, the focus is on making an impact together – your participation matters, every step taken, every rand raised, is making a difference for our beneficiaries this year and to show support for those affected by cancer.

“When you’ve been supporting a cause of this magnitude for 26 out of your 38 years in business, the why is engrained in your DNA,” says Algoa FM managing director Alfie Jay.

“It is our passion to inform as many people as possible about the facts regarding early detection and treatment. We engage meaningfully with fighters, survivors, and those who continue to celebrate every step,” says Jay.

“For ISUZU, this event is more than just a walk—it’s an opportunity to take action, celebrate life, show honour for those who are no longer with us, and to drive hope and support to those affected by cancer,” says Billy Tom, president of ISUZU MOTORS South Africa.

“At ISUZU, we are committed to supporting initiatives that address the challenges faced by our communities. The Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer resonates deeply with our employees and their families, who participate in record numbers each year,” he adds.

CHOC East London plans to use the funds raised to upgrade its kitchens, enhancing the cooking and meal preparation areas, as week as improving the cold storage facilities.

“The CHOC House serves as a beacon of hope, providing families with a place to stay during treatment, which helps reduce the financial burden,” says Hedley Lewis, the CHOC chief executive officer.

“At the heart of any home is the kitchen — a place where many experiences are shared, and nutritious meals are prepared.

“Proper nutrition helps children and teenagers cope with the side effects of cancer treatment and prevents malnutrition and infections,” he says.

The two Hospice beneficiaries will use the funds raised to expand their services into the rural areas around the Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay metros.

“This year’s event promises to be the largest yet, rallying communities to walk in honour of those who’ve battled cancer and in memory of those lost, it’s a celebration of courage, determination, and hope for those affected by cancer,” says Algoa FM marketing manager Lesley Geyer.

“Walk, unite and fight with us by joining the 26th Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer which will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, with start points in Gqeberha, East London, and George, and with virtual participation nationwide”. Entries are now open on www.algoafm.co.za.

Department and stakeholders call for support for children with cancer

Pretoria: The Department of Health, working together with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), National Cancer Registry (NCR) and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, urges members of the public to show support for children living with cancer and also survivors.

The country joins the global community during the month of September to raise awareness about the impact of childhood cancers including leukaemia, brain cancers and lymphomas in families and communities, and also to acknowledge the critical role played by health professionals to support children with cancer, and their families.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide. It is estimated that 400 000 new childhood cancer cases are diagnosed each year, with around 1000 of these occurring in South Africa, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), with leukaemia being most common cancer diagnosed in children in South Africa according to the National Cancer Registry.  It is essential to come together in solidarity with those affected and work towards better outcomes for children with cancer.

Gold September is an internationally recognised month dedicated to raising awareness about childhood cancer. The iconic gold ribbon symbolises the incredible strength, courage, and resilience of children and teenagers impacted by this disease. The primary objective of Gold September, as well as ongoing efforts, is to increase public awareness, provide research support, and advocate for improved treatment and care for children and teenagers battling cancer.

It is essential to unite to amplify early detection, treatment, and support for affected families in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC). The GICC aims to elevate the global overall survival rate to 60% by 2030 and to ensure that children and adolescents can lead a life free from pain and suffering, even in the face of such a challenging illness.

Children and teenagers with cancer and their families are confronted with a myriad of obstacles that extend far beyond the complexities of treatment. Economic hardships, lack of community support, and sometimes the distances away from hospitals exacerbate these challenges. The emotional, physical, social, and educational burdens imposed by the disease make the treatment journey incredibly daunting. We as a nation must address the all-encompassing needs of these patients and their families to offer comprehensive support.

One of the significant challenges facing the medical community and those who support their heroic efforts to treat patients is the delayed presentation of children at primary health care centres and Paediatric Oncology Units in tertiary hospitals across the country. To improve early diagnosis, we urge all South Africans to recognise that “Children do get cancer.” It is essential to be aware of the Siluan Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer and to act promptly if any of these signs are apparent in a child you know. Additionally, we encourage everyone to support families throughout their journey instead of allowing them to feel isolated.

The Department of Health extends appreciation to the dedicated members of the medical community, as well as to the outstanding efforts of civil society, non-governmental organisations, and the compassionate South African public. Their tireless collaboration is instrumental in providing patients with the best care and support.

The National Cancer Registry is committed to provide as accurate and up-to-date statistics on childhood cancers to help guide decision makers and policies to make meaningful impact for children and families affected by childhood cancers.

According to Mr Hedley Lewis, the CEO of CHOC, a non-profit organisation caring for children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or life-threatening blood disorders, says that their organisation continues to advocate for sustained efforts within the childhood cancer community to collectively foster hope by raising awareness about the early warning signs of the disease.

“Additionally, it is important to empower the public with information to promptly report any instances where they suspect a patient may be exhibiting symptoms indicative of childhood cancer”, he said.

Meanwhile, Prof Gita Naidu, the Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, urges the society to continue with their unwavering support for the children and families afflicted by cancer. “Families are torn apart by the diagnosis of a child with cancer; siblings experience untold anguish; families are thrown into the depths of financial hardships with many unexpected out-of-pocket expenses; and families may experience a breakdown in relationships”, she said.

For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Mr Foster Mohale
Health Departmental Spokesperson
0724323792
Foster.mohale@health.gov.za

Mr Hedley Lewis
Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa
082 944 7655
Hedley.lewis@Choc.org.za

Tech Meets Care:

CHOC and Core Unite to Launch iSchoolAfrica iPad Learning Programme in Four Gauteng Hospital Schools

The Impact of the Programme: Xichavo Mhangani’s Story

Gauteng, South Africa, 3 September 2024 – CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA (CHOC) and Core Group, the leading distributor of Apple, DJI and Nintendo in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, have partnered to introduce the iSchoolAfrica iPad Learning Programme to four hospital schools in Gauteng, including the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital School situated inside the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.

This initiative supports paediatric oncology patients by ensuring their education continues despite the challenges posed by cancer treatment and prolonged hospital stays.

The programme brings iPads loaded with engaging content directly to children and teenagers undergoing cancer treatment. The goals include reducing anxiety, minimising learning loss, and assisting with various therapies. Comprehensive training is provided to hospital schoolteachers and CHOC volunteers to integrate the technology effectively into the children’s and teenagers’ routines and educational plans.

Core has contributed iPads equipped with built-in accessibility features and a wide selection of age-appropriate curriculum and entertainment apps. “We are thrilled to partner with CHOC to support the needs and rights of young learners,” said Dian De La Port, CEO of Core.

The Impact of the Programme: Xichavo Mhangani’s Story

Xichavo Mhangani, shared his journey with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Despite the challenges of his diagnosis and treatment, Xichavo has shown remarkable resilience. He balances his responsibilities as the head of a child-headed household, caring for his younger siblings, while pursuing his academic goals.

During his treatment, Xichavo found solace and support at the CHOC house in Diepkloof. The staff and other children became like a family to him, helping him come to terms with his diagnosis.

Xichavo’s story highlights the potential impact of the iSchoolAfrica iPad Learning Programme. Despite the toll of his treatments, Xichavo is working hard to excel in his studies and dreams of becoming a chartered accountant. Access to the iSchoolAfrica programme could have provided him with additional educational support, potentially improving his academic performance during this challenging time.

“Gold September is an internationally recognised month dedicated to raising awareness about childhood cancer. The iconic gold ribbon symbolises the incredible strength, courage, and resilience of children and teenagers impacted by this disease. It is essential to unite to amplify early detection, treatment, and support for affected families in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC). The GICC aims to elevate the global overall survival rate to 60% by 2030 and to ensure that children and adolescents can lead a life free from pain and suffering, even in the face of such a challenging illness,” said Prof. Gita Naidu, Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.

This partnership embodies a shared commitment to improving the quality of life and educational opportunities for children battling cancer.

“For CHOC, this collaboration and initiative is a dream come true. It is exciting to be able to have the launch of this programme during September, which is known internationally as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. This September, we stand together to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children and teenagers with cancer, survivors and their families. Our voices are stronger when unite, and together we can make a difference,” said Hedley Lewis, CEO at CHOC.

For more information about the iSchoolAfrica iPad Learning Programme, please contact:

Dian De La Port – CEO of Core Computer Business – dian.delaport@core.co.za, Hedley Lewis – CEO of CHOC – hedley.lewis@choc.org.za or Michelle Lissoos – Director of iSchoolAfrica – michelle.lissoos@ischoolafrica.com.