CHOC steps up fight against childhood cancer with Flip Flop Day

CHOC is hosting Flip Flop Day on February 14, where participants can wear flip-flops and donate R10 to show solidarity with those affected by childhood cancer.

February 5, 2025

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Lizelle Denkema, Antonella Swanepoel, Zama Khango, Talia Santos, and Taryn Seegers from CHOC during its 45 birthday celebration in Fourways.

As Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC) celebrated its great milestone year, having turned 45 last year, the organisation is living up to its promises made during the big celebration at Indaba Hotel in Fourways.

One of these promises is to continue raising awareness and funds for children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer.

During the ceremony, the CEO of CHOC Hedley Lewis said vulnerability was the word of the day as he described the event. He said 45 years of holding children’s hands and being supported by donors, compassionate survivors and volunteers, brought so many emotions to him.

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“It is a privilege. It is so ironic that we are celebrating such tough journeys but what we are celebrating are those people who hold these children’s hands daily. We hope that for the next 45 years, we continue to grow and just get maximum output and impact on these families.”

This Valentine’s Day, February 14, CHOC is hosting Flip Flop Day, an annual initiative that aims to unite South Africans against childhood cancer. For just R10, participants can purchase a sticker and wear their flip-flops with pride, showing solidarity with children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer.

“Flip Flop Day is more than just a fun event; it’s a powerful gesture of love and support for families facing the toughest battle of their lives,” said Lewis. “By flipping on your flip flops and donating R10, you’re stepping up to make a real difference in the lives of children and teens battling cancer. It’s a simple act that shows we care and that we stand together. Let’s turn every step into a stride of hope and solidarity.”

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He added that was why they were calling on all South Africans to become ‘Sole Mates’ and step up for childhood cancer through the initiative.

The funds raised from Flip Flop Day will go towards CHOC’s programmes, including psychosocial support, which provides emotional, social, and practical support to children, teenagers, and their families.

Since 1979, CHOC has steadfastly provided emotional, practical, and psychological support to children diagnosed with cancer and their families.

Through its comprehensive services and unwavering dedication, CHOC has brought hope, comfort, and strength to countless families navigating the challenging journey of childhood cancer.