Lizzy loves lending a hand
Helen Ludwig CANSA House in Empangeni has a new Community Mobiliser.
YOUNG, vibrant and eager to make a difference in the lives of others.
That is newly appointed Community Mobiliser (CM) at Helen Ludwig CANSA House in Empangeni, Lizzy van Zyl.
The sociable 27-year-old who started out in administration support for the organisation in July, was soon after promoted and tasked with greater responsibility.
‘I have to ensure there is a sustainable flow of fund-raising and effective services provided to the community. I also have to organise events such as our popular Cuppa for CANSA, relay and shavathon,’ says Van Zyl.
In-between she also conducts testing such as PSA, pap smears and breast examinations and Van Zyl says the challenge is trying to man the fort alone.
‘It is quite hectic of late as we don’t have a nurse, so the main obstacle is having someone to assist with wellness days and services,’ she says.
Despite this hurdle, she has passionately continued to make a difference and create awareness.
‘We recently had a talk at Amangwe Village Crèche about skin cancer. It was the most precious thing ever. We had the little ones in sun hats and completely lathered in sun block. We plan more talks at schools,
‘The reward at the end of the day is priceless. Just to have someone look you in the eye and say ‘thank you for being there’ is enough to make anyone’s day,
‘I have started forming emotional bonds with some patients and it has opened my eyes to how much they need help and support. I have seen so many patients sitting alone in the oncology wards and all they long for is a hug or an ear – just some compassion,
‘I wake up every morning excited to do something good and make a change to someone’s day and there is nothing that is able to match up to that feeling,’ Lizzy said.
Beach baby
Born and raised in Richards Bay and a matriculant of Hoërskool Richardsbaai, Van Zyl started her career in teaching at the Empangeni Eden Park School where she taught Grade RR and 3 before she joined CANSA.
The eldest of two children and a lover of people, she enjoys her spare time at the beach or a wholesome braai with some friends.
‘That’s why I love fish,’ she chuckled. ‘Oh, and McDonalds.’
