As a mother who lost her own child to cancer, and is now a CANSA TLC Paediatric Oncology Coordinator and Manager, Vera van Dalen comes into contact with many children living with cancer.
Nicus Lodge, established and dedicated to the memory of her son, was born out of Vera’s deepest desire to ensure that no family should be separated during their child’s critical treatment.
In her daily encounters with these young warriors, some children stand out more than others for Vera. Wandile is one of these children.
On the anniversary of seven years of coming and going for treatment, Wandile presented Vera with a deeply touching letter and pencil sketch of herself.
Vera describes Wandile as: “A child not defined by what has been taken, but by what remains – an unshaken spirit, a fierce courage, and a tenacity that refuses to bow.
She meets each day head-on, looking life straight in the face with a bravery that inspires everyone around her. She wears her battle scars with quiet pride, looking straight ahead, unafraid.
“Wandile has endured surgeries, treatments, and the loss of an eye leaving a gap which tells the story about that part of her journey. Today she is not just a survivor – she is a light, a fighter, and a reminder that strength is not measured by perfection, but by perseverance.
“I remain in awe of what these children continue to teach me.”