Cancer is one of those dreaded words and the early warning signs are often disregarded to avoid having to confront our worst fear. For those inflicted by this awful disease there can be no hiding and our support and help is often all that they have to assist in their fight against this disease.

CANSA (the Cancer Association of South Africa) are the brave and tireless people who provide counselling, support groups, medical sisters, interim homes with transport to and from treatment centres, family support for children effected by cancer, wigs, breast prosthesis, Stoma clinics and products and so much more. It is to this worthy cause that GSD decided earlier this year to donate some well needed funds.

We were approached by Julie Richardson a young exuberant Grade 11 pupil from St. Andrews College in Johannesburg who was preparing to swim the 2009 Midmar 8 Mile Challenge to collect money for CANSA, her chosen charity. This is the third time that Julie has participated in this event and stems from the time her cousin Amy (then nine) became very ill with Cancer. It was a very traumatic time for the whole family as she was critically ill for a long time but thanks to excellent medical care, the power of prayer and a lot of support Amy is a walking miracle and Cancer free.

Julie who first swam the event when she was ten planned on raising a record amount this year. It is to her credit that she achieved this raising R26 000. She can be seen here (on the right) handing over the donation to Maria Scholtz (left) who is the CANSA Lowveld regional manager.

The money is to be used in CANSA’s TLC drive – because it is Tough Living with Cancer we need Tangible Loving Care. To find out more about CANSA and all the things they do in our community please visit www.cansa.org.za or specifically related to the TLC drive email tlc@cansa.org.za.