Daniella Snyman died at her Northmead home on May 10 at the age of 22 of a heart attack.
She was born on December 13, 1995.
In August last year, The City Times spoke with Daniella who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia for the second time in four years.
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Daniella attended Arbor Primary and Boksburg High School.
Her mother, Dawn Viljoen, said Daniella had two stem cell transplants after her relapse.
“Through the process, she developed a cytomegalovirus infection,” Dawn said.
Daniella was first diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in July 2014.
Dawn said despite her daughter’s illness, Daniella always strived to help others.
Daniella had 11 blood transfusions and 13 platelet transfusions, which are extracted from blood.
“She cannot donate blood again because of her blood disease, but she was always passionate about educating others about the importance of donating blood,” said Dawn.
“She was a cupcake. She was passionate about children, she loved being on stage and performing.”
Her best friend, Carol-Anne Potgieter, said Daniella has lived her life to the fullest and loved with all her heart.
“There was no beating around the bush with her, she always gave to others, she loved her job and the children she took care of,” said Carol-Anne.
“She had the utmost respect for her medical team. There were days we assumed they just couldn’t get enough of her.”
Carol-Anne said her friend touched many cancer warriors while she was in the hospital, there’s no doubt that she will be missed.
“She was a warrior, a hero and an individual who found the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.
“Daniella allowed her circumstances to make her kinder and stronger.
“Victory doesn’t come from a cancer-free diagnosis but how you choose to live your life while you have the illness,” she said.
Her memorial was held on May 15 at the Word and Life Church in Boksburg.
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