About 120 women gathered at Thompson’s Bay on Saturday for the annual ILoveBoobies Secret Swim, raising awareness and funds for breast cancer screenings.

The Ballito event was one of 25 swims held across South Africa, with about 2 500 women taking part nationwide. The event is called the Secret Swim because participants can choose to swim topless as a symbolic gesture of solidarity.

Ballito swim organiser Nicole Lang said she was grateful for the support shown by all attendees.

“The Secret Swim is about more than just taking a dip. It brings together breast cancer warriors, survivors and their supporters, while also honouring and remembering those who are no longer with us,” she said.

Funds raised through the initiative help ILoveBoobies provide free breast cancer screenings to women in underserved communities.

Breast cancer survivor Linde Lategan said taking part in the Secret Swim in Ballito was a special opportunity to celebrate her recent victory over the disease.

“I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in September last year, and I have just received the wonderful news that I am now cancer-free.

“I think it’s an incredible cause, firstly because of the awareness it creates around early detection, which truly does save lives. Secondly, raising funds to provide access to scans is so important. I believe every woman should have access to these scans without having to worry about the financial burden,” said Lategan.

For her, the highlight was the sense of solidarity among the women taking part.

“What stood out to me most was the incredible community of women who came together to support one another. Every woman had a story to tell, whether as a caregiver, a warrior, or a survivor. There was something so powerful about being surrounded by women who understand, support, and uplift one another.”

She said the experience reinforced the importance of having people to lean on during difficult times.

“Having a strong support system makes such a difference in getting through the difficult days. It reminds you to keep the faith, hold on to hope, and trust that brighter days are ahead.”