Pretoria: The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness commemorated Cancer Survivors Day on Wednesday by honouring individuals who have survived cancer. Yesterday’s occasion also served as a chance to remember those who are still bravely fighting cancer as well as the community and healthcare workers who support them in their journey.
According to South African Government News Agency, the event highlighted inspirational stories of resilience and strength. ‘We spoke to people who have survived cancer and are still fighting it. Through these stories, we are reminded that help is available to protect your health at every stage of your life,’ the statement read.
When 58-year-old Fairouze Lawrence from Bridgetown started experiencing unexpected weakness in her legs, she knew something was not right. Her family called an ambulance and she was quickly taken to the hospital for care. Lawrence, who receives ongoing care at Heideveld Community Health Centre, was later diagnosed with breast cancer and spinal compression at Groote Schuur Hospital. She continues to receive treatment for her spine, but she remains positive. ‘I’m still on this journey, but I’ve come so far. I am now on bone-strengthening treatment, and it’s helping me to stand longer,’ she added.
Another cancer survivor, an Eerste River resident, Amy Britz, was just 12 years old when she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, after discovering a swelling below her knee. She was referred to Tygerberg Hospital after visiting Eerste River Hospital, where she started her treatment, which included chemotherapy and surgeries. ‘I became very depressed through this journey. I was missing school, especially my friends. I decided that I will win this battle, and I will get better. I started thinking more positively and saw the bright side of this condition.’ With the support of her mother, family, friends, school, healthcare workers, and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), she was able to survive. In October 2022, the teenager rang the bell to mark the end of her chemotherapy. She is looking forward to her 16th birthday this July and is now back at school, cancer-free.
The provincial department has advised parents to take their children to their nearest clinic or general practitioner if they notice any early warning signs of childhood cancer. A paediatric oncologist at Tygerberg Hospital, Dr Leilah Schoonraad, explained that childhood cancer is proof that life can often feel unfair. ‘We as doctors in oncology promise to stand by your side and help you on the journey to ringing the bell, one day at a time. And as the memory of your treatment becomes a thing of the past, I hope you will share your story with others, so that they can know how strong you are and how much you have overcome,’ the oncologist explained.
If symptoms persist even after treatment at the primary healthcare clinic, Schoonraad advised patients to discuss their concerns with a healthcare worker and get a referral to Tygerberg Hospital or the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. Doctors believe that in adults, early detection saves lives. The World Health Organisation recommends being alert to several signs. These include unusual bleeding or discharge; sores that do not heal; changes in bowel or bladder habits; new or growing lumps, particularly in the breasts or testicles; a persistent cough or hoarseness; changes in moles, such as alterations in shape, colour, or size; and difficulty swallowing.
‘It is also important to live a healthy lifestyle by avoiding tobacco use, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise if you can. If you notice any of the signs, please visit your nearest clinic. Getting help early makes a difference.’