My dad has been diagnosed with rectal carcinoma (rectal cancer). Our family has been doing everything we can to help him fight this battle.

We have been going through the public healthcare system (Joburg Gen), where he recently underwent life-saving surgery to receive a stoma bag. We are truly grateful to the incredible doctors and nurses there - this surgery allowed him to eat and regain some of his strength after months of pain and discomfort.

Unfortunately, his journey is far from over.

The next steps are crucial - he urgently needs:

A follow-up with a private gastroenterology specialist

A 2nd CT scan to determine the stage and spread of the cancer

Further treatment, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on the results

Sadly, the government hospital system is currently unable to treat him urgently. His case has been classified as non-priority, meaning it could take months before he receives the next phase of treatment - months that he may not have.

We’re now turning to private care to give my dad a real chance at recovery, but the costs are far beyond what we can afford on our own.

Every contribution - no matter how small - will go directly toward his medical consultations, scans, and treatments.

Please, if you are able, help us give him a fighting chance.

Your kindness and generosity mean more to our family than words can express.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting us through this difficult time.