Cansa brings hope to children battling cancer across South Africa

The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) continues to provide hope and care for children and teenagers with cancer.

Each September, the world unites to shine a light on the challenges of childhood cancer, highlighting the urgent need for early detection, accurate diagnosis, and access to treatment.

According to Cansa, around 1 000 children are diagnosed with cancer in South Africa every year, many of whom are treated in under-resourced public hospitals.

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“Every child deserves the chance to fight cancer with dignity, comfort, and hope,” says Anina Meiring, service manager of childhood cancer services at Cansa.

“We walk alongside families through the toughest journeys of their lives. With every device, every meal, and every ounce of comfort, we’re easing a child’s fight against cancer.”

Through its Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) Programme, Cansa provides medical devices, comfort aids, and nutritional support to children and teens nationwide – reaching paediatric oncology units from Tshwane to Cape Town, Kimberley to Gqeberha, and Johannesburg to Polokwane.

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In the past year alone, Cansa TLC delivered:
• 63 ports, sparing children repeated needle pricks;
• Over 1 800 protective dressings to guard against infection;
• 15 wheelchairs and strollers, giving mobility to children weakened by treatment; and
• 223 nutritional support packs, helping children stay strong through chemotherapy and radiation.

“These are not luxuries – they are essentials that mean a child can endure their treatment with less trauma and more dignity,” adds Meiring.

“Without this kind of support, families face an even tougher experience with childhood cancer.”

Behind much of this impact are supporters like the Vlok family, who, despite now living in the United States, remain deeply rooted in South Africa.

For 13 years, they have run their September fundraiser Help towards Hope, raising over R4,5 million since 2013 – including more than R550 000 in 2024 alone.

“The Vlok family embodies the spirit of giving back,” says Lisa Strydom, National Manager: Care and Support.

“Their commitment ensures children get ports, prosthetic eyes, mobility aids, and nutrition packs – things that directly change lives. They show us what global solidarity looks like in action.”

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A port (or port-a-cath) is a small device implanted under the skin and connected to a vein. It allows doctors to safely administer chemotherapy, fluids, or medicines, and to draw blood repeatedly – all with less pain and stress for young patients. In South Africa, a port costs about R4 500, while a paediatric nutrition package costs R350.

“As a mother of a child who received a port through Cansa’s support, I can say it’s life-changing,” shares one parent supported by Cansa TLC.

“My child no longer cries at every needle prick. That kind of relief cannot be measured in rands and cents.”