Warriors, survivors and supporters on the red carpet at theatre
Cancer warriors from all over the Southern Cape and Klein Karoo were the kings and queens last Saturday, 23 September, during a celebratory event at the
George Arts Theatre. Outeniqua Oncology made sure their warriors felt every bit like royalty from the moment they entered the premises on a red carpet. Guests were treated to delicious refreshments and a gift of freshly cut proteas.
Well-known South African actor Erik Holm, best known for his role as the quadriplegic Riaan Malherbe in the popular kykNET series Binnelanders, gave a riveting speech about hope and love, titled "From trauma to triumph". Holm relates to the ordeal of a life-changing event and how the love of his friends, family, God and even strangers inspired him to keep on going and battle his trauma.
All on board
With a footprint in cancer care for over 24 years, Outeniqua Oncology's medical team and staff all joined in the festivities, celebrating life, love, hope and legacy - their theme for this lovely event.
"When asking people living with cancer where they find the strength and support to face the hardships, they often reply that their personal spiritual beliefs, their loved ones, and bonds with others who have lived through
similar situations helped them pull through," said Outeniqua Oncology social worker Engela van der Merwe.
"Lifelong relationships between peers living with or touched by a cancer diagnosis are often born in the reception of an oncology unit, in a chemo room or even in hospital. The celebration of Warrior Kings and Queens have created an opportunity for those touched by and living with cancer to mingle, share and experience life, love, hope and memorymaking among each other."
Cancercare Outeniqua Oncology thanked every individual and business who
contributed to their special event, including the sponsorship of the eats and drinks, and jam-packed goody bags with various gifts and treats. The goody bags were sponsored by Pick n Pay (PreCap Centre) and decorated with beautiful artworks by York High School learners. "Most of all we want to thank and celebrate our Warrior Kings and Queens as this celebration was about each one of them," said Van der Merwe.