Cancer survivor (12) donates R25 000 to Stepping Stone Hospice

IT won’t get her down – a diagnosis of incurable cancer. She has her family, friends, her two horses, a spot on a winning netball team, and a beautiful heart.

The 12-year-old Danielle Theart, learner at Laerskool Randhart, last week donated R25 000 to Stepping Stone Hospice, funds raised for her by the school’s Supporters Club.

During a heartwarming assembly at the school on August 19, three cheques, each worth R25 000, were handed over to three learners of this school who were diagnosed with various forms of cancer.

They could choose what they wanted to do with the funds and Danielle chose Stepping Stone Hospice as the beneficiary.

Her dad, Johan, explained: “One of the patients currently in your In-Patient Unit used to work for me. We paid her a visit and when we left, Danielle made up her mind that her funds should go to the hospice.”

She loves life

Danielle was diagnosed two years ago, at the age of 10, with a chronic form of leukaemia, a cancer that requires chemo medication daily and to be taken for the rest of her life.

“Though the side effects of the medication leads to severe joint pains and mood swings, Danielle remains optimistic and loves life,” Johan said. Spending time with her horses and playing goal on the school’s netball team keeps her busy and motivated.

Her family – mom Sorieta and brother JJ, and of course dad Johan, is her support structure.

“We are very proud of how she handles herself despite the challenges she faces.”

Ranties care

Deputy principal at Laerskool Randhart Francois Venter explained that the Supporters Club at the school, made up of teachers and parents, decided to reach out to the community through fund-raising.

Cycling was the chosen method of raising the funds.

“In 2017, we took part in the 947 Cycle Challenge and raised funds for the SPCA.

“In 2018, some of our learners were diagnosed with cancer and we decided to raise funds, not only to assist needy families in our community, but also to assist these learners on their recovery journeys.

“Through spinathons, cycling races and a project where the learners in the school could buy armbands stating ‘Ranties gee om – Ranties Care’ we raised the funds,” Francois explained.

“Our heartfelt thank you goes out to Danielle and her family for reaching out to us,” said Tersia Burger, CEO at Stepping Stone Hospice.

“We have a special message for Danielle and the other two learners on their individual cancer journeys – please know you are never alone and you will always have, not just your families’ and your friends’ support, but also this hospice’s support,” said Tersia.

“You are true warriors and we salute you.”