More and more often it seems that we hear of yet another family member, friend, or colleague battling cancer. This devastating disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with approximately 14 million new cases and 8.2 million recorded cancer-related deaths in 2012. [1] This August, the Self-Medication Manufacturer’s Association of South Africa (SMASA) encouraged all women to educate themselves about those cancers that affect women, as early detection may help save their lives. Which factors increase your risk of developing cancer? There may not be a definitive answer to this question, but the World Health Organisation (WHO)…

People Living with Cancer (PLWC) is an umbrella organisation, which brings together various projects and people who are interested in making a difference in the lives of people living with cancer in South Africa. Cancer.vive is a special project of PLWC. The Cancer.vive survivors create awareness and honour those who have lost the battle. Activities of Cancer.vive include raising funds, which are utilised to drive cancer awareness, educational initiatives and campaigns with the emphasis on previously under-privileged communities. The 5th annual Cancer.vive Awareness Ride takes to the road from 10-19 September, with the main aim of getting communities across the…

Juliet Drozdz had just turned 40 when she received the devastating news from her doctor that she had a brain tumour. “My life came to a complete halt. In every way,” Juliet recalls.  The days leading up to her diagnosis are still fresh in her mind. “I was on holiday in New York and my eyes were very watery. I remember the bright lights of Times Square really bugged me, so much so that I had to return to my hotel and lie in a dark room to recover.”  Upon her return to South Africa, Juliet went to visit an…