GEORGE NEWS AND PHOTO GALLERY - The stories of a few women from George who are battling and surviving cancer touched the hearts of guests at a fashion show held at St Augustine Hall on Saturday 22 June, in aid of Wings of Hope Cancer Support.
During the event, cancer fighters and survivors showcased clothing from Anna’s Boutique, Amigo’s Men’s Fashion and Something Special. Each participant also had the opportunity to briefly share their journey with cancer.
A highlight of the event were the George firefighters who put their gear aside to escort the models, supporting the cause.
A central theme in the women’s stories was the message of hope after a cancer diagnosis, emphasising that life can and should be lived fully, with joy and gratitude.
Caeana Joshua shared that she was 16 weeks pregnant with her daughter Avah when she was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She underwent chemotherapy while pregnant and, after carrying to full term, delivered a healthy 3,2kg baby.
Post-birth, Caeana received radiation treatment and is now healthy. "What kept me going through all this was prayer," she said.
Thabiso Keketsi with Caeana Joshua and her daughter Avah showing off some casual wear. Avah's outfits were sponsored by Something Special.
Alta du Plessis, cancer free for over a year after a breast cancer diagnosis, stressed the importance of regular mammograms.
"It was a huge shock when they found a small lump. It was removed during surgery, and because it was so small, chemotherapy was unnecessary. I received 16 radiation therapy sessions, which really were a walk in the park.
My message is: go for your regular mammogram. A lump can only be felt once it is 2cm. Mine was 1,5cm, and the mammogram picked it up."
During her talk, George Fire Department’s Station Commander, Santa Sternsdorf, shared her personal connection to cancer, having lost friends, colleagues and family members.
"My father-in-law passed away of cancer in 2014, and my own father has just completed his last chemo treatment for colon cancer. As firefighters, we are exposed to carcinogens during our duties. I have lost colleagues to cancer," she said.
Reflecting on her experiences, including the Knysna fires, Sternsdorf emphasised the importance of finding strength. Quoting from the film Evan Almighty, she said, "God does not make us strong; He gives us opportunities to practise being strong.
Life’s challenges are opportunities to practise strength, patience, and understanding, even if we never find all the answers to our ‘why’ questions. Our experiences might inspire others to carry on or change direction."
All proceeds from the event went to Wings of Hope.
Ingrid Watkins, a local organiser, volunteer and cancer survivor, highlighted the emotional and practical support Wings of Hope provides, including a national WhatsApp support group where great friendships are formed. For more information, contact Watkins on 083 345 4764.
George Fire Chief Neels Barnard (front right) had the look of a proud father as 11 members of his team waltzed down the catwalk with the 'models'. Attending the event with him were Divisional Commander Johan Brand (left) and Station Commander Santa Sternsdorf. Photo: Debra Patrick
Right: Junior firefighter Reagan van Beulen and Amy-Kay Claasen took a quick dance break.
Michael de Stadler and junior firefighter Cheryl Jansen.‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
