The Springs Striders added more profound meaning to their weekly time trial this week by running in support of paediatric cancer patients.

Participants donated their medals, which will soon be handed to children undergoing chemotherapy as a symbol of hope and strength.

Striders member Nico De Nysschen said the event had a great turnout and that many participants donated their medals, far more than they expected.

Clinical psychologist and founder of the Medal Donation Drive, Melissa Celliers, said the idea to start the initiative came from witnessing the extraordinary bravery of children undergoing chemotherapy.

“These little ones face enormous emotional and physical challenges, yet they continue to show resilience, humour, and courage.

“I wanted to create something symbolic, something that acknowledged their strength in a tangible, uplifting way. A medal became the perfect symbol; a representation of victory, bravery, and being seen,” she explained.

Celliers runs this initiative with a team that comprises fellow healthcare workers based at Netcare Hospital in Alberton.

She said the community’s response showed that people truly want to support these children; they needed a meaningful avenue to do so.

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“We realised that so many runners, athletes, and community members have medals tucked away in cupboards, medals representing their own journeys. By donating them, these medals gain a second life and a far greater purpose,” Celliers said.

With this medal drive, the team hopes to send a message to patients and families of patients that they are not alone and that their bravery matters.

“We want each child to feel proud, recognised, and empowered. Many of them face difficult treatments that can feel endless and overwhelming. Receiving a medal transforms a frightening, exhausting moment into one of celebration and encouragement.”

Celliers emphasised that supporting paediatric cancer patients doesn’t require grand gestures but requires compassion and genuine human connection, as children tend to remember how you made them feel.

“I would encourage organisations to partner with hospitals, psychologists, and oncology teams to understand what these children truly need.

“Small acts, comfort items, emotional support initiatives, creative projects, and community involvement can have an enormous impact.”

“Importantly, choose initiatives that bring dignity, empowerment, and emotional upliftment to the children and their families.

“When your support centres around restoring hope and strengthening their sense of being valued, it will always be meaningful,” she concluded.