Little Heroes of Hope ride for those who can’t
Junior Cycle team raises awareness and support for Muscular Dystrophy by participating in the 947 Kids Race.
Two junior members from the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of South Africa (MDFSA) and Little Heroes of Hope cycling team, Cayden and Dante Fourie, are adamant and happy to continue to support those affected by muscular dystrophy.
The Little Heroes of Hope is a team of young children who cycle to raise awareness and donations for the MDFSA’s Gauteng branch. The team participates in the 947 Ride Joburg Kids Race every year.
The MDFSA is a registered non-profit organisation and operates in Gauteng, Limpopo, Northwest, Mpumalanga, and the Free State. There are also branches in KZN and Cape Town.
Muscular dystrophy is a collective name given to a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle. It is caused by abnormal genes or ‘mutations’ that interfere with the production of proteins that are crucial to forming healthy muscles. There are many kinds of muscular dystrophy. Some occur in childhood, while others can even occur in late adulthood.
While there is no cure for muscular dystrophy, the MDFSA continues to support people affected by it.
According to Louis Fourie, the father of the two boys, they have been part of the foundation since Cayden was just two years old. This year it will mark 10 years.
“To us, MDF is about building bonds, friendships, and family. It is about raising awareness and supporting those affected by the disease. We ride for those who can’t, and with the money we buy electric wheelchairs, steel handlers for bathrooms, and any other things that they might need,” he said.
Louis added that he’s very supportive of his boys and has gone to multiple schools to try to get young children into cycling.
“We have 13 children that are part of the race. Kids love cycling a lot and why not try them to do it for something meaningful,” he said.
He believes that involving children in such initiatives helps them develop sensitivity, thoughtfulness, and the ability to be better people.
The children have set a target of R20 000 to be raised in 2024 before they take part in the Kids Race in November. They would like to appeal to the public to show them support, and to donate in support of their efforts to reach their target.
For more information, contact Robert Scott, the business development manager via email at mdfgauteng@mdsa.org.za or 011 472 9824.
