#CaxtonCares and shows support for Cansa

Caxton Local Media Joburg West’s editorial team came together on Wednesday, March 8 to show that #CaxtonCares.

The team showed their appreciation towards cancer survivors as well as those who lost their battle. It was also to celebrate 20 years of the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (Cansa) Shavathon.

Also read: #CaxtonCares: Herald, community show their support to KZN

Everyone took a seat to get their hair sprayed in all sorts of funky colours to show support, however, no one was brave enough to shave off any of their locks this year. The Krugersdorp News’ cervical cancer fighter and survivor, journalist Natasha Pretorius had two clean scans and also showed her support by spraying her hair the colour of her cancer which is turquoise.

It was a wonderful morning adding some colour to the office by supporting a worthy cause.

Also read: #CaxtonCares: Send a virtual hug and show your support to Takkie Tax

Roodepoort Record and Roodepoort Northsider editor Adelé Bloem is also raising funds for Cansa Shavathon.

“If there is one cause that will always receive support from me [in some form or another] it is Cansa’s annual Shavathon – not only a good cause, but a lot of fun to participate in as well! You might ask yourself, ‘but, what difference might this gesture make? It will not cure someone’s cancer if you spray or shave your hair.’ And, to be honest, this is quite probably the truth, but my question is, ‘why not do it to show support?’ It might not bring about a miracle cure, but for that one day [and the time it takes your hair to grow back] you will be able to show someone who has had to either battle cancer and won or someone who has maybe lost a loved one to this disease, that you care. For me, showing this support is quite personal and is dedicated to the following people: Zannerique Toerien, who lost her battle at only eight years old, and 21-year-old Clarece Scholtz, who battled leukemia and came out on top, it is to show how much respect I have for her, for never backing down and refusing to give up the fight. It will also be to honour the memory of my sister-in-law, Suzette Bloem, who passed away after a brief, but fierce fight with pancreatic cancer, as well as to celebrate my colleague, Natasha Pretorius, who never gave up and continued her battle bravely to come out on top. If you can, please donate to my fundraising project on GivenGain,” said Adele.

Donations can be made here: https://www.givengain.com/ap/adele-bloem-raising-funds-for-cansa-shavathon#timeline

In a post on social media, Cansa also conveyed their condolences following the death of radio and TV personality Mark Pilgrim, who was a great supporter of Cansa. Mark died on March 5 as a result of stage 4 lung cancer.

“Cansa is deeply saddened by the loss of a long-time friend, and supporter, Mark Pilgrim. One of South Africa’s most treasured radio personalities, Mark was also a beloved Cansa ambassador supporting Cansa’s Shavathon as well as being a Daredevil Champion and assisting in numerous fundraising events in the capacity of MC for many years.

He was also an avid activist for raising awareness around cancers affecting men, especially testicular cancer and promoting men’s health awareness. Mark was always an inspiration to cancer warriors, patients, and survivors by openly talking about his journey over the years. Even after his second diagnosis, in 2022, Mark continued to share his story and encourage others. His messages of hope and bravery resonated with everyone, not only cancer patients, and taught us all too. He inspired other survivors constantly. We are forever grateful for all that you did for Cansa and cancer awareness and will surely miss you. We will always remember and speak about your legacy and involvement.”