Born with Fibular Hemimelia and facing various challenges with the most unshakable spirit, double-amputee Miki Jovanovic has just received the ultimate birthday gift… and it’s all thanks to the kindness of strangers who chose to care!

Pretoria, South Africa (13 March 2026) – By the tender age of one year, a rare condition known as Fibular hemimelia had already impacted Miki Jovanovic’s life in a way very few could ever fully understand.

Both her legs were amputated as a result of not forming properly – a life-altering procedure that could easily have sent anyone into a dark place of isolation, but not Miki.

Thanks to the support of her loved ones and incredible doctors, they always found a way to ensure that Miki could walk.

“Thanks to them, I’ve had the chance to grow, learn, and live as fully as possible,” Miki said.

With an unshakable spirit and the aid of prosthetics to enhance her mobility, she has lived a full, active life well into adulthood. Those who know her best describe her as ‘a remarkable 29-year-old athlete and advocate’.

However, as her 30th birthday approaches on 26 March, her needs have changed as she requires more permanent prosthetics capable of carrying her into the next chapter of her life. This is not only a matter of discomfort but also a significant safety risk that threatens her independence.

“After careful consultations with my Prosthetist (leg doctor), we’ve identified the best prosthetic solution for me: the right legs, the right feet, and the right silicone liner to meet my needs. The only barrier is the cost.”

Using her social media platforms, word of mouth, local media and fitness event fundraisers, Miki spread the word about her efforts to raise R250,000 to get her ‘new legs’.

And the response? Mind-blowing!

Generous donations from individuals and organisations poured in from far and wide, with every single bit of support helping her move forward – quite literally.

Even more touching, Miki’s aunt, Susann Rojas, wrote into the Jacaranda FM Good Morning Angels show, informing the team all about her story and hopes to secure new permanent prosthetics. Miki was invited to the programme and shared all about her journey.

Moved by her testimony and her drive to maintain her dynamic lifestyle and professional commitments, the Good Morning Angels Fund contributed the full R100,000 Miki still needed to meet her 30th birthday challenge!

And as a bonus, she will be able to wear a pair of heels for the first time in her life!

Overwhelmed by gratitude, Miki thanked her amazing gym family, her mother Lee Grobler, who has been her biggest supporter since day one, her friends, community, donors, and the Good Morning Angels – all of whom chose to care, support, encourage, and show kindness.

“Because of all of you, I get to keep walking, training, boxing, and stepping confidently into my next chapter. This isn’t just funding – this is independence. This is freedom. This is a community. From the happiest, most grateful heart…THANK YOU,” a grateful Miki said.

Congratulations and happy birthday in advance, Miki! With your ultimate gift secured, we hope this trip around the sun will be the best one yet!

Sources: Linked Above

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The post How a Community Rallied to Give Miki Her Dream Legs by Her 30th Birthday appeared first on Good Things Guy.

With a mission as vast as the ocean they crossed, Shoneé, Katherine, Eva, and Georgina proved that when compassion meets courage, even the coldest waters can’t stop the determination to change a young life in need of all the support.

Cape Town, South Africa (05 March 2026) – After waiting over a month for the perfect conditions to embark on their  72-kilometre relay swim from Fish Hoek to Hout Bay, the Relay Mermaids finally dove into the chilly Atlantic last week – pushing through the elements, navigating the currents of the False Bay side and rounding the legendary Cape Point to reach the finish line.

“What began as a waiting game on 6th January finally became a reality on 26th February when, with just two days’ notice, we were given the green light for our fundraising swim. Everything depended on the right conditions, and we could not have been more blessed,” shares one of the swimmers, Shoneé Cornelissen.

The temperature was tolerable, and the waters lay mostly flat with only a gentle swell. However, nothing could have prepared the mermaids for the night swim around Cape Point.

“That stretch was the most daunting. The lighthouse beam kept circling in front of us, as if we were swimming endlessly toward a light we could never quite pass,” Shoneé recalls.

The darkness, fatigue, nausea and looming jellyfish put up quite a fight, but these mermaids knew exactly who they were swimming for, and that made all the difference in keeping the momentum going. After 24 gruelling hours in the water, they did it! A feat Georgina Smith says affirms would never have been possible without strong “teamship” and honesty with one another.

Katherine Persson confirmed that the relay swim was in accordance with channel rules to be ratified by the Cape Long Distance Swimming Association as an official swim.

As shared in our previous feature ahead of the event, the swim was dedicated to raising funds for 14-year-old Leandro Jantjies. A talented rugby player whose life was irrevocably changed when he broke his neck playing rugby. He’s now a recipient of The Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund, which is providing lifelong physical, emotional, and financial support.

The R160,000 fundraising goal was already surpassed before the ladies even dove into the notoriously chilly ocean, with generous contributions amounting to an incredible R283,828!

“A BIG thank you to everyone who has helped the #relaymermaids to reach our funding target! All your generous contributions go to Leandro and to getting him back home to his family,” Katherine said.

Shoneé also thanked every person, business and community that rallied behind them, making the entire effort worthwhile.

“To our friends, family, and the broader community, thank you for following every tide and turn of this journey. Your encouragement carried us, and your generosity has made a meaningful difference in the life of Leandro and his family. We are deeply, deeply grateful.”

These amazing mermaids have once again proven that when compassion meets courage, life-changing things happen. We’re so proud of what they have achieved!

Sources: Linked Above

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Relay Mermaids Smash Fundraising Goal with Epic Swim for Injured Teen appeared first on Good Things Guy.

From a chance jog in a work uniform to 10km Races. This is how Maryke and Nesta’s unexpected friendship has captured hearts across social media.

Mpumalanga, South Africa (20 February 2026) – If you’re on social media, chances are you’ve come across that duo. The unexpected friendship that started with a jog and turned into one of the most heartwarming timelines on social media.

Yes, we’re talking about ‘Hello My Friend’ founder and content creator Maryke Nel and her famous running partner, Nesta.

The latest update says it all: “body keeps on bodying.” That’s how Maryke captioned her recent transformation video, and she’s not wrong.

Maryke says her life changed the day she met Nesta, a domestic worker in a household in her neighbourhood. One day, while Maryke was out on a run, Nesta (still in her work uniform) spotted her and decided to join in for a little jog.

Just like that, a friendship was born.

What started as a spontaneous run has now grown into a full-blown running journey, documented for the rest of us to see.

One year and eight months later

“All these memories make my heart so happy. It’s been 1yr8ms since Nesta and I have become friends and it has been amazing seeing her blossom and transition into the strong woman she is today so inspiring!”

From those early jogs to now confidently running 10km races, the growth has been undeniable. Chances are you have even bumped into them at races like the Spar Women Challenge. We’ve watched the transformation in real time. The running outfits upgraded. The race entries increased.

The medals? Secured. Even a moment with South African superfan Mama Joy made it onto their highlight reel.

Maryke has consistently shared their journey online, and viewers have been inspired. Many have taken up running themselves, motivated by the authenticity and joy the pair radiate.

It’s also beautiful to see how they have also involved themselves in each others lives. It turns out the best part of the journey was never just the running.

Sources: Maryke Nel/ Facebook 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Maryke and Nesta’s Friendship Is Still Winning the Internet appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Animal welfare doesn’t clock off. The Midrand SPCA inspectors live this reality every day, braving chaotic traffic and risking their own safety on demanding shifts to be a voice for the voiceless. Their latest victory? Rescuing an injured sheep against all odds.

Johannesburg, South Africa (02 February 2026) – An animal welfare champion’s work is never done. While it can feel overwhelming, it’s also a testament to the enduring compassion these people bring to the world. People like the Midrand SPCA’s General Manager, Inspector Pam Pretorius, and Inspector Jerry Seemise.

Just when they thought they would catch a break towards the end of a busy shift, they decided to collect a donation that had been outstanding for a week. Fate, however, had other plans.

“On the way, a call came in about a cat that had been knocked over. Not knowing whether the cat was still alive, they immediately diverted, heading out into heavy traffic. Inspector Jerry worked to slow oncoming vehicles while Inspector Pam bravely darted onto the busy road to reach the cat. Sadly, the cat had already passed, but thanks to quick thinking and careful coordination, Inspector Pam managed to wave traffic down and get back to the vehicle safely,” SPCA Midrand said.

While trying to navigate the Friday afternoon congestion, they took a back road route, only to stumble across yet another poor animal in distress.  A lone sheep standing next to yet another busy road.

According to the SPCA, Inspector Jerry managed to stop safely to take on the nail-biting challenge of catching the sheep while ensuring it didn’t panic and dart into oncoming traffic.

“Against the odds, they secured the sheep, loaded him up, and rushed him back to the society. He was treated for his wounds and hoof rot and is now comfortable, safe, and happily grazing on our farmyard.”

After a very long shift of ducking and diving through traffic, rushing to the aid of the vulnerable and defenceless, Pam and Jerry were able to hand over duties to fellow Inspector Theo for the night – knowing that once again, lives were protected, suffering was reduced, and animals who had no voice were not left behind.

Midrand SPCA extends its appreciation to these selfless heroes who continue to go above and beyond, often at great personal risk, to ensure the safety and welfare of animals in its care.

Sources: SPCA Midrand

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Midrand Inspectors Brave Traffic to Bring Wounded Sheep to Safety appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A tense seven-hour rescue operation along the N2 brought three terrified dogs to safety, with the support of security teams, vets, and volunteers.

Durban, South Africa (28 January 2026) – What started as a drive to collect another dog turned into a mission none of the SAFE team could ignore. On a Sunday morning along the N2, three dogs were spotted.

They were small and running for their lives, but catching them proved impossible. Calls kept coming in the next two days from concerned residents who had seen the pups.

By Wednesday, the team finally got the break they needed. Marshall Security, keeping watch near Sibaya, contacted the rescue team. What followed was a seven-hour operation where every second counted. The dogs faced not only the dangers of speeding traffic but also the threat of traps scattered across the area. The stakes couldn’t have been higher.

This rescue was a team effort in every sense. Andreas and the Marshall Security guarding division were tireless. Tracking, communicating, and lending a hand every step of the way. Nathi from the SPCA assisted once the female dog was safely trapped, despite a busy schedule. Special thanks also went to Nanna Yvonne, who sponsored traps from last year that made the capture possible.

Even a holidaymaker from Johannesburg, who joined in Umdloti, ran tirelessly along the beach to ensure the final dog was safely secured. Westville Veterinary Hospital handled the two terrified boys with care, while Mich from Yvonne’s Kennels offered a safe space for them to start healing physically and emotionally.

Now the focus shifts to recovery. The male dog, named Hooter, is being treated for Erlichia with a course of antibiotics. Smooch, the other boy, remains shut down but has also started treatment. Both were riddled with ticks and will need time, care, and emotional support to regain trust and health.

SAFE is appealing to the public for help covering veterinary bills and kennel fees while the dogs recover and eventually get neutered.

Banking Details for Donations:

• Account Name: SAFE FOSTERING NETWORK NPC
• Account Type: Current
• Account Number: 63008988694
• Branch Code: 220229
• Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
• Reference: Freeway Rescue

Sources: SAFE 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Community Rescues Three Dogs Found Terrified on the N2 Freeway appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Knox the Siberian Husky has officially been named South Africa’s top show dog, and he’s heading to the biggest dog show stages in the dog world!

South Africa (15 January 2026) – The very good boy, Knox, has been invited to represent South Africa at the FCI World Challenge of Top Dogs and the World Dog Show in Italy this June. These are two of the most prestigious canine competitions globally.

Knox will be the only dog representing South Africa at the event. A Siberian Husky flying the flag high for Mzansi! Generally, the space is dominated by European and American competitors.

“For a South African dog to compete there is rare. For a Siberian Husky from this continent to do so is unheard of,” shares Duane Riley, Knox’s owner, as per a fundraising campaign created to get SA’s top show dog to Italy.

The invitation came after a very successful year. Knox claimed the title of South Africa’s top show dog at the KUSA Nationals last year, adding to his list of other wins from the event, including Best of Breed, Group 1st, and Best in Show.

His proud owner, Duane, has spent four years travelling across the country with Knox for shows. Behind all the hard work it took for the many well-deserved ribbons and medals, there’s a loving bond.

“At 5am, Knox wakes me up by putting his nose into my neck. He wants to go outside, he knows his morning run is imminent – the same quiet routine we’ve done for years..Just the two of us and a dream that started long before anyone was paying attention.” shares Duane.

Now comes Italy.

It’s an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but it’s also entirely self-funded, and getting a dog overseas is by no means simple. There are strict veterinary requirements for travelling internationally with pets, special permits need to be obtained, and specialist pet transport and quarantine processes are needed. The costs quickly add up.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to help cover travel, accommodation and entry fees to get Knox to Italy.

“I’ve already invested four years, traveling to countless shows across the country, and spent hundreds of thousands to get us here. This final stretch is beyond what I can manage alone.” shares Duane. 

If you’d like to help Knox get to the world stage, where he’s poised to fly the South African flag high, follow this link. To keep up with the journey, follow Knox’s Facebook page!

Sources: Linked above.

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post SA’s Top Showdog Heading to World Dog Shows in Italy appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The women-led wellness organisation collected 360 packs of sanitary pads and turned them into 180 care packs for learners facing period poverty.

Johannesburg, South Africa (08 December 2025) – Kyma Yoga Flow has always positioned itself as more than a wellness space, and its latest outreach initiative has shown just how deeply the organisation lives that purpose. Founder Chevonne Ramharuk recently led a community-driven effort that combined yoga, solidarity and menstrual dignity in one powerful project.

It began as a simple idea for a themed yoga class, but grew into something far bigger. The class doubled as a donation point for menstrual products, and the response from the Kyma Yoga Flow community exceeded every expectation. By the end of the drive, enough funds and products had been collected to purchase 360 packs of sanitary pads, later repacked into 180 care parcels for matric learners at Ivory Park Secondary School.

Chevonne says creating impact through women-focused work is at the heart of what she does.

“Kyma Yoga Flow is centred on women’s wellness and empowerment.”

The decision to support Ivory Park Secondary came after learning more about the realities many of its learners face. The school had openly shared how period poverty affects attendance, especially during exam season. For Chevonne and her team, stepping in where the need was urgent felt right, especially for matric students preparing for the most important exams of their schooling journey.

 

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While menstrual health is often discussed quietly or avoided altogether, the Kyma team wanted the drive to bring compassion and awareness. Many girls still miss school, rely on makeshift alternatives or experience deep embarrassment around menstruation.

“Our goal was to provide reliable menstrual products so that the girls could focus fully on their studies without stress or shame.”

Behind the scenes, the project relied on a network of dedicated women who handled everything from fundraising to repackaging. Lerato Saasa and Thembakazi Sixaxa helped identify the specific needs at Ivory Park and coordinated directly with the school to ensure the parcels were delivered to the right learners.

Chevonne believes true wellbeing goes beyond stretching and guided breathing. It also includes access, dignity and social upliftment.

“Community care is powerful.”

The generosity shown through this campaign has reinforced her belief that meaningful change is possible when people come together with intention.

Sources: Supplied 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Chevonne Ramharuk Turns Yoga Into Community Care With Pad Drive Initiative appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A 408-run victory sealed South Africa’s first Test series win in India in 25 years, setting records, breaking barriers, and marking a new era for the Proteas.

Kolkata and Guwahati, India (27 November 2025)- South Africa have done it! And done it in style. A dominant 408-run victory over India has secured the Proteas their first Test series win on Indian soil in 25 years, marking a 2–0 sweep that will go down as one of the team’s greatest away achievements.

South Africa did more than just clinch the series, they did it with a record-breaking performance. Their 408-run triumph is now the biggest winning margin over India in the history of Test cricket.

The last time South Africa won a Test series in India was back in the 2000–01 season, Since then, India had been a fortress, the Proteas had won just two of their last 13 Tests in the country. This year, that narrative finally changed.

 

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South Africa posted 489 and 260/5 in their two innings, setting India a near-impossible target of 549 runs. The pressure mounted as India crumbled to 201 all out in their first innings and never managed to recover. The Proteas sealed the series with a performance that mixed patience with power, youth with experience.

Captain Temba Bavuma continues to build an exceptional record. He has now won 11 of his last 12 Tests as captain, including the 2025 World Test Championship Final back in June. His leadership and calm presence have made a tangible difference. Both on home soil and abroad.

South Africa have proven that they can travel, adapt, and compete in some of the toughest conditions in cricket. A 2–0 series clean sweep in India? After 25 long years? Now that’s a statement!

Sources: Linked Above 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post South Africa Make History with Test Series Win in India appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Ilona Deyzel may have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at a young age, but she has set her sights on a bright life filled with love, and she is making sure others know they can have that too!

Gqeberha, South Africa (06 July 2025) – In honour of the 75th anniversary of Multiple Sclerosis South Africa, we meet Ilona Deyzel, who is sharing her story in an effort to raise awareness and boost the public profile of the disease locally.

The incredible organisation is celebrating 75 years of raising awareness and support for South Africans with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). To honour those South Africans, we are delighted to highlight their inspiring stories as they face the unknown battles with their bodies to live life to the fullest.

The disease is still underrepresented in South Africa, but that is about to change! Multiple Sclerosis South Africa (MSSA) is raising the profile of the disease, offering support for families and raising funds to help make a difference. Their goal is to unite Africa and create a federation for the continent that will empower thousands of sufferers.

We hope to highlight many stories for their 75th anniversary: a diamond jubilee, so to speak. It is a celebration of all the gems who aim to make living with MS a little easier.

What is Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. It interrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. Symptoms can range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis.

Every case is proving unique, and the progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving closer to a world free of MS.

Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with at least two to three times more women than men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects more than 2.3 million people worldwide. MS is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system. Today, over 2,500,000 people around the world have MS.

There is so much more to the disease, which we have shared for World MS Day 2023 here.

Ilona Set Her Sights on Raising MS Awareness

Ilona Deyzel was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 22. Today, she is 34 and lives with her husband in Gqeberha and is surrounded by love with all her dogs.

Growing up in Kariega, Eastern Cape, Ilona and her sister were raised by their parents, who were teachers in the community. When she left school, she studied Optometry at the University of Free State. She then settled in Gqeberha, getting her first job at the Specsavers Greenacres. In 2015, Ilona became a partner at the practice and has seen great success in her career.

When not working or spending time with her dogs, Ilona enjoys gardening and, more specifically, is passionate about proteas.

Her first encounter with MS was growing up with her uncle, who was diagnosed when Ilona was just 6 years old. Sadly, he passed away in 2008.

Aside from general sinus and allergies, Ilona was never sickly growing up, so when the right side of her face went numb in 2013, she immediately went to the doctor. The numbness had spread from her face down to her right arm and leg. Her GP immediately thought it was MS.

“That was a big shock because growing up, I’ve been told MS is not genetic, and my uncle was severely affected. I got an appointment within 2 weeks with a neurologist, Dr Marcell Britz, who sent me for an MRI and lumbar puncture, and I was diagnosed with MS, but we couldn’t start with medication yet because I only had these symptoms once.”

By February 2014, her feet went numb, and she was sent for another MRI. She was finally able to start medication and found relief. The next few years, Ilona changed meds and life carried on. She married the love of her life, and they started planning for a family.

With her MS, Ilona visited the Gynae for a check-up, and it was here that another heartbreaking reality struck.

“I went to the gynaecologist for a check-up and got diagnosed with Stage 1B1 cervical cancer. I then got a trachelectomy (where they only remove the cervix) in Pretoria. Luckily nothing spread and been clean ever since.

We then tried to go the IVF route, and unfortunately, I had to change to a “safer” MS medication. The new medication and the hormones of the IVF didn’t work that well together, and I had 2 big MS relapses while I was busy with the IVF. The IVF didn’t work and my neurologist advised me to think carefully before I try again. Maybe next time I won’t be so lucky and it can leave permanent damage to the nerves. We then decided that’s it. Let’s stick to furbabies.”

Her struggles have been numerous, but Ilona has had an incredible support system, including her husband and family, as well as her business partners and staff. We asked Ilona what some of her triumphs have been through her MS journey.

“Triumphs were testing an MS warrior’s eyes at work. She introduced me to Non Smit and MSSA. Through them, I met wonderful people in Port Elizabeth, South Africa and even overseas. But big shoutout to my group of wonderful MS warriors in PE and the surrounding areas. They are very special to me.

But the biggest triumph for me is every day when I am able to wake up and walk. It’s the little things we must be grateful for that we take for granted. There are so many people, and especially people living with MS, who wish to just take 1 step on their own.”

As for encouraging others living with MS, Ilona has some thoughts.

“Get yourself a support group. Your family and friends are a good place to start, but they don’t always understand. At MSSA, you will definitely find someone who has experienced what you are experiencing at this moment. Even if we cannot give advice, at least we know the feeling. We are in this together.

Take every day as it comes. One day you feel like you can climb Mount Everest, the next day you don’t even want to climb out of your bed, and that’s okay. Listen to your body, don’t try to be brave.”

“Everyone’s MS journey is unique; some people can go do a marathon, some people can’t. Don’t compare yourself to other people. Just focus on what makes you happy and surround yourself with people who add meaning to your life.”

Sources: GTG Interview

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The post Ilona Deyzel Shares Her MS Journey, From Diagnosis at 22 to Inspiring Others appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The sunny shores of Strandfontein Pavilion buzzed with excitement as surfers caught 100 waves to support at-risk youth.

Cape Town, South Africa (12 May 2025) – The sands of Strandfontein Pavilion came alive with energy, excitement, and epic surf as the 9Miles Project hosted its first-ever 100Wave Challenge on Saturday, 3 May.

The main event was all about getting surfers to commit to each catching 100 waves in one day to raise funds for marginalised youth in coastal communities. And…they did all that and more!

Surfers Challenged to Catch 100 Waves in 1 Day for At-Risk Kids

“Gabriel, our youngest participant, stole the spotlight early on by becoming the first solo surfer to catch 100 waves – a jaw-dropping effort that had the crowd cheering,” commented Margo Carelse on behalf of the 9Miles Project.

“But another standout moment came from Faieq, a long-time 9Miles advocate who’s gone from student to role model. Faieq not only caught all 100 waves, but he also smashed his fundraising goal, raising the most funds as a solo surfer on the day. His passion, determination, and commitment to giving back were truly inspiring.”

The event exceeded expectations, raising a staggering R125,285, surpassing its R100,000 goal. This huge and heartfelt contribution will be poured into 9Miles, which offers surf therapy, mentorship, and life skills programmes that create safe spaces and empower vulnerable young people for a brighter future.

Riders came, conquered and crushed their goal. The whole team jointly agreed that the heart of the epic challenge was all about showing up, pushing through, and giving back.

“We’re so proud of everyone who made this day possible,” said the 9Miles team.

Sources: BackaBuddy

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Cape Town Surfers Surf 100 Waves, Raise Over R100K! appeared first on Good Things Guy.