Sisters launch drive to help mom fight cancer

DURBAN, South Africa - Sept. 21, 2016 - PRLog -- TWO Pinetown residents are on a fundraising mission to purchase medication to help their mom.

Kari-Anne Myburgh and Jessie Riddin have put together a fundraising page, Light Up Sandie's Life, to help their mom, Sandie Riddin, who is facing her fourth encounter with cancer.

Sandie narrowly escaped Hodgkin's disease (cancer of the lymphatic system) at the age of 20. She suffered liver disease at the age of 37 as a result of the radiation therapy she underwent earlier in her life. Her body was overcome by leukaemia at age 47, by which time she was unable to have any chemo or radiation. Her body had become too weak to protect her against the side effects. Sandie is currently fighting stage three breast cancer and is unable once again to get treatment from a physician.

Kari-Anne said during her mom's battle with leukaemia, her mom was able to improve and beat the disease using only natural medicines. This is currently her only source of relief from pain and the medication is definitely assisting in shrinking the tumor.

"At the time of discovering the cancer, she had tumors in both breasts but through the use of Seven Point Five medication the tumor in her left breast disappeared completely. But her right breast tumor is not responding to her current dose of medication because of the lack of funds to maintain the required amount," said Kari-Anne.

Sandie has been unable to work since September 2013 as moving her right arm had become painful. Simple tasks like washing a dish, sweeping her room, cooking a meal and even ironing an item of clothing had become difficult for her. She has been receiving support through various churches, people and family.

Kari-Anne said the reason for the campaign is to reach out to the world, to share her mother's story as it is an inspiration to most and to also appeal to those who are willing and able to assist financially.

"In the last few months her medication supplies have dropped drastically and we as a family have not been able to keep up with her needs. Her daughters said they are hoping the campaign will help their mom reach her birthday on 3 December without stress of finances for the medication.

"She is a fighter and a strong woman who is always smiling even in the face of death. Please join my family and I in lifting her up during this scary and trying time in her life. Your contribution will make a difference no matter how small," said Kari-Anne.

A target of 2000 dollars will cover the cost of her medications for up to six months. The fundraising page has only raised 12 percent of the target. Those willing to assist can visit the fundraising campaign page, https://gogetfunding.com/light-up-sandies-life/ to make a donation.


Story by Deshni Pillay