WATER Lillys Women’s Cancer & Mental Health Group celebrated its 10th anniversary with a heartfelt gathering at Wyebank Creche on Saturday (August 15) to honour the lives of those who lost their battle to cancer, while also celebrating and recognising cancer survivors.

The celebration brought together community members, local leaders, sponsors, cancer survivors and their families to honour a decade of supporting women affected by cancer, mental health challenges and gender-based violence.

The founder, Ivey Govender, reflected on the organisation’s journey, saying the anniversary was meaningful because it was celebrated at the place where the first seed was planted.

“Water Lillys was founded after a small group of people gathered in prayer with a shared belief that no woman should have to walk her cancer or gender-based violence journey alone,” she said.

Over the past 10 years, the organisation has grown from a small prayer circle into a community movement that has supported more than 300 women from Wyebank and surrounding communities.

One of the event’s speakers and cancer survivors, Patsy Pillay, shared her deeply personal journey from the time she was diagnosed with cancer. She described her journey as difficult but said the support, prayers and encouragement she received through the organisation made the experience easier to face.

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Pillay encouraged women to support one another during difficult times, emphasising the importance of unity, compassion and never facing challenges alone.

One of the most emotional moments of the celebration was a candle lighting and balloon release ceremony held in memory of those who had lost their lives to cancer. The ceremony also honoured cancer survivors and those currently living in remission, creating a moving moment of remembrance, hope and solidarity.

Ralph Moothalugan, a member of Water Lillys who led the anniversary toast, encouraged women to continue standing together and supporting one another.

“We started with one prayer, and today we celebrate a community of hope. Let us keep blooming together and ensure that no woman walks this journey alone,” he said.

The 10th anniversary celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to compassion, sisterhood and continued support for women facing cancer, mental health challenges and other difficult circumstances.

From its humble beginnings at Wyebank Creche to a decade of community service, Water Lillys’ journey stands as a testament to the power of prayer, solidarity and women supporting women.

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