Uplifting others on their road to recovery
Nola became a Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) volunteer after being diagnosed with aggressive duct carcinoma (breast cancer) in 2015.
ALWAYS willing to offer a helping hand or words of encouragement is Bluff cancer survivor, caregiver, volunteer and an all-round living beam of hope, Nola Nirghin.
Nola became a Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) volunteer after being diagnosed with aggressive duct carcinoma (breast cancer) in 2015. “I was so touched by the support from extended families, friends and acquaintances. I really had so much love and support during that difficult period. My prognosis was not good initially but I overcome all the challenges through modern medical technology and my Christian faith. I completed my treatment in 2016. I then joined a cancer support group on the Bluff which eventually dissolved as the lady in charge moved to Botswana,” she said.
She was later approached to start up the group again and it has been running for over two years, where members from the Bluff and surrounding areas, meet and support each other. “When counselling others, understanding the situation from a survivor and caregiver perspective, is what guides me in assisting others going through this journey. It is a roller-coaster ride for both parties involved and neither knows the pressure on each other at the time. It’s all about taking things one day at a time, being positive, brave and believing in overcoming this chapter gets you through the good and bad days,” she shared.
Nola also lost her mother to hepatic carcinoma (cancer of the liver) in 2002. Her husband, Vicky, is very involved and supports the cause. “Together assist CANSA by coordinating a great support group and a team of volunteers that are always willing to assist and get hands on when projects arise. They are also survivors, patients and caregivers themselves.”
The mother of one always looks forward to the well-known CANSA shavathon, as her favourite fundraising initiative. “It’s a fun event, for children, teens and adults. There is however an emotional side to it for me, as it is a reminder of losing your hair as a woman during the treatment, which is no fun and quite challenging. But it is always so good to see how many people support this event, from the ponytail donations, shaving of the hair completely and to the spraying funky colours in support those who do not have the support and funding during their treatment.”
Over and above raising funds for cancer patients, the association offers counselling, promotes worthy events, hosts wellness days, organises sponsorships and raises cancer awareness in communities throughout the country.
“Before my cancer diagnosis, material things meant a lot to me, reaching my goals, career, home, car, family and striving to be the best that I could be. After my cancer diagnosis, I had a reality check. Material things don’t really matter anymore as our tomorrows are not promised. We take nothing with us. Our journey on earth or in this life, should not be about ourselves, it should be about helping each other get through life together. The sooner everyone realises this, the world would be a more peaceful and happier place to live in.”
Asked what’s the one thing she could change in the world is she had the means to, Nola said: “Peoples mind-sets. We only have one chance at life, make it count!”
CANSA is always looking for volunteers, sponsorships and funding to assist in its various programs and events. All proceeds go towards treating and supporting cancer patients. For more information contact Nola Nirghin on 083-605-8062 or visit the CANSA website on www.cansa.org.za.
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