The National Cancer Registry (NCR), based at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), in partnership with Living With Cancer South Africa, a non-profit organisation, and Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), will host the Cancer Survivors Month plans pre-launch on Tuesday, 27 May 2025. Observed annually in June, Cancer Survivors Month celebrates the strength, resilience, and perseverance of individuals who have overcome cancer. It is a time to honour their courage, acknowledge their journey, and offer support to those still battling the disease.
At the pre-launch, the three organisations will pay tribute to cancer survivors and unveil a symbolic giant ribbon statue, which will be installed at the NICD. The statue was generously sponsored by Mr Johan Groenewald, who lost his beloved wife, Ms Heidi Groenewald, to cancer in October last year, a gesture that stands as a deep personal tribute and a beacon of remembrance for all families affected by the disease.
Dr Mazvita Muchengeti, Head of the NCR, said: “We look forward to unveiling our plans for Cancer Survivors Month, developed in collaboration with our partners. It is important to commemorate survivors and provide a space for those who have lost loved ones to reflect and remember.” These sentiments were echoed by Ms Belinda Wagner, founder of Living With Cancer SA, who started the organisation in 2017 after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
“Cancer Survivors Month is more than a celebration – it is a call to recognise every life touched by cancer. This initiative gives voice to the silent strength of survivors, the enduring love of families, and the memories of those we have lost. Through this partnership with the National Cancer Registry, we are not only honouring journeys of survival but also igniting awareness, advocacy, and action for a better future in cancer care,” Ms Wagner. Members of the media are invited to attend the event and engage with representatives from the NCR and Living With Cancer SA.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 27 May 2025
- Venue: NICD PRF Building
- Time: 11:30
To RSVP, please email media@nicd.ac.za
