POLOKWANE – On Wednesday, July 22, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) Polokwane hosted a network session where they informed guests about how they help the community and how they use the money raised.
First up was Munnik Marais, corporate relationship manager at Cansa head office. He spoke about the history of Relay for Life in Polokwane and stated that Cansa has three components.
“There is research, education and support we offer. People get diagnosed with cancer at younger and younger ages. Men and women of all races get diagnosed.”
Cancer survivor, Bobby Were, told his story about his journey with breast cancer and how he did not want to acknowledge it. He only went for medical help two years after he felt the pea-sized lump next to his nipple.
“Getting cancer was one of the best things that could have happened to me. It opened my eyes to the needs of other people. I am grateful for the path I had to walk.”
Adri Ras, divisional manager at Cansa, explained what Cansa does in the community.
“We have the Theunis Fichardt Hospitium and the TLC children’s ward at the Pietersburg Provincial Hospital, we offer services to the communities as well as to corporate companies and mines. We provide information and education and we provide support where it is needed.”
Cansa receives no support from the government, they have employed only a minimal amount of staff that work for less than market related salaries.
“The Theunis Fichardt Hospitium is now in operation for 24 years and the only one of its kind in South Africa. We have highly skilled medical staff to treat patients from all walks of life. We loan medical equipment like wheelchairs and hospital beds or bedpans and commodes.”
Cansa also offers a care clinic where pap smears, breast examinations, HIV rapid tests and PSA tests are done. To help raise funds, Cansa hosts a bazaar each year.
“None of us can say that they will never be touched by this devastating illness. It is not only the patient being affected, but also the families that suffer. Cansa is there to walk this road with you,” said Adri.
Vlooi Venter, divisional manager for service delivery for facilities at Cansa also attended the day to do skin tests for guests.
