Westridge cancer group feeds over 670 for Mandela Day
The Westridge Cancer Survivors Support Group in collaboration with Westridge Library fed more than 670 people with soup and bread during a Mandela Day event on Wednesday July 16.
Image: Marsha Bothma
The Westridge Cancer Survivors Support Group fed more than 670 people with soup and bread during a Mandela Day event at Westridge Library. The initiative also extended to Tafelsig, where meals were served to the community.
The ,event took place on Wednesday, July 16 and was led by cancer survivors and co-founders Rene Petersen and Saadiqa Abrahams. Held in partnership with Westridge Library, the group handed out meals for 67 minutes in honour of Mandela Day, on Friday, July 18.
One of the organisers, cancer survivor Michael Williams, said the aim was not just to feed people but to promote health awareness.
The event took place on Wednesday, July 16 and was led by cancer survivors and co-founders, pictured, Rene Petersen and Saadiqa Abrahams.
Image: Marsha Bothma
“We aimed to feed 670 people,” said Mr Williams. “I want to encourage everyone to look after their health, share their stories, and remember that early detection saves lives.”
Group facilitator Johanna Henry said the group plays an important role in supporting those affected by cancer.
“Our main purpose is to support cancer survivors, including those newly diagnosed and in long-term remission. This year alone, we have welcomed over 20 new cancer survivors,” she said.
Pictured is the Mitchell's Plain Fitness Fusion Club at the event.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Several non-profit organisations also took part in the event, including the Mitchell’s Plain Fitness Fusion Club. Founder Andre Sauls said 80% of their members are seniors over the age of 70.
“For Mandela Day on July 18, we hosted 67 minutes of tendon spinning at Zone Fitness at Liberty Promenade,” said Mr Sauls.
Westridge Library manager Mu-Izz Hendricks said the initiative aligned well with the library’s role in the community.
Westridge Library manager Mu-Izz Hendricks said the initiative aligned well with the library’s role in the community.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Pictured is the Women Walk to Wellness at the event on Wednesday July 16.
Image: Jade Swartz
“From a library perspective, these kinds of events contribute significantly to the services we offer as the City of Cape Town. It promotes lifelong learning and shows the value of community partnerships,” he said.
Cancer survivor Mercia Daniels, who is in remission after a three-year battle with paranasal sinus cancer, said it was important for survivors to encourage others.
“It is an honour to be alive and to give back,” said Ms Daniels. “Cancer is not the end. There is life after cancer, and new opportunities still exist.”
- Jade Swartz, 20, an aspiring writer living from Lentegeur. She job-shadowed with CCM Central reporter Marsha Bothma this week.