At only 19 years old, Nico Botha has lived a life more courageous and inspiring than many do in a lifetime.

Diagnosed with Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma in January 2024, his story is defined not by illness, but by grit, faith, and an unyielding fighting spirit.

His diagnosis followed a long and difficult journey that lasted more than a year from the initial onset of symptoms.

Nico’s aunt, Mari Parker, explained that it all began when he first started experiencing leg pain, initially assumed to be a sports-related injury.

“The pain grew more intense and consistent, and by August last year, he was experiencing night sweats. It wasn’t until a second ultrasound in December, after he started having trouble bearing weight on his leg, that the report delivered the earth-shattering news – a suspicion of a non-benign tumour.”

Since then, Nico has endured a demanding treatment process, including 58 rounds of intense chemotherapy, followed by a more gentle yet relentless protocol requiring four to five full days a week.

“There have been sleepless nights of pain, infections, blood transfusions, and hospital stays that steal any sense of normalcy. Yet, Nico still shows up with a smile. He has always been described as the kind of person who lights up a room,” said his mother, Surette Botha.

Before cancer changed the course of his life, Nico was a standout athlete and scholar, earning a full sports scholarship to Hoërskool Monument for hockey, while also excelling in tennis and golf. He is an award-winning photographer and a self-taught musician who plays the piano and harmonica.

Watching Nico’s strength inspired his uncle, David Sudolsky, to take on a personal challenge of his own. He began training for the biggest race of his life – the Avalon Benefit 50km race.

To date, four other runners have joined David in support of Nico, giving rise to the RunForNico fundraiser.

The event took place at Ruimsig Country Club on Thursday, October 9, where family, friends, and community members braved the rain to show their support – enjoying warm coffee from Plato Coffee and taking part in a charity fun run.

“The community’s support was overwhelming. Despite the rain, people showed up in numbers for our boy, and we are so grateful that Nico has such an abundance of support. For Nico, success isn’t just beating cancer – it’s living and dreaming again,” said Surette.

Nico’s battle is far from over. Those wishing to support his journey can visit the GoFundMe page.