The life of a four-year-old girl, lost far too soon to cancer at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, continues to inspire an act of kindness that has touched the lives of dozens of young patients over the years.

The little girl passed away in 2017, and her death touched those who had come to know her in the hospital ward. Among them was Refilwe Sedumedi, a Diepsloot resident and breast cancer survivor, who chose to turn the heartbreak into hope by launching the Sedumedi Hope Foundation and creating the ‘Easter visit’, a tradition that honours the little girl’s memory.

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Now in its ninth year, the foundation’s annual Easter visit continues to bring comfort, connection, and moments of joy to young cancer patients in the same ward where the little girl spent her final days.

This year is no different; the foundation will once again shift the focus to those who need encouragement the most, the young cancer patients bravely battling their illness.

Sedumedi said the initiative remains personal to her, “We started this in her honour, and every year we carry her legacy forward by showing these children and their parents they are not forgotten. Her memory keeps us going.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Watch: Refilwe Sedumedi talks about the Easter visit to Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital. #Fourways #Charlottemaxeke ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

She said to set the mood, volunteers start early in the hospital kitchen before moving through the ward to greet families. There is a short welcome, followed by prayers, one-on-one moments with the children and their parents, and the distribution of Easter treats. For children who are too sick to leave their beds, the team brings the celebration directly to them.

While the day is filled with smiles, Sedumedi admits the emotional weight of the work can sometimes be overwhelming.

“Some kids pass away a day or two after the visit. I often come home in tears and need time to recover. But God gives me the strength.”

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With Good Friday approaching, Sedumedi is appealing to the public for donations to help make the day memorable for the children spending Easter in the hospital.

Easter marshmallows, boxes of sweets, and cash contributions are welcome. Prepared lunches that comply with hospital guidelines are also appreciated.

“To donate or volunteer, since the visit usually concludes by midday, leaving plenty of time for your own Easter plans, please feel free to reach out directly at 081 571 2677 or email fifised77@gmail.com.”

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