Ollie, a young toddler, began experiencing vision problems that gradually worsened before being diagnosed with congenital bilateral cataracts. Although resources proved a huge stumbling block, organisations, therapists and medical experts came together to restore this little boy’s vision through a life-changing surgery at no cost!

Gqeleni, South Africa (22 October 2024) – Imagine watching your friends and toys slowly start to look a little different and seem further away each day, almost out of nowhere. You struggle to communicate this confusing, blurred vision to the people around you because, after all, you’re just a toddler.

This was the case for little Ollie, who was the picture of health. He was a happy, active toddler exploring the world with wide-eyed wonder until his mother began noticing a deterioration in his vision when he was just one year old.

His mother recalls how her son would struggle to see things from a distance while playing and even moved up close to the screen to watch TV.

Concerned by his behaviour, his mother inspected his eyes and discovered that they appeared foggy.

According to the Small Projects Foundation, Ollie’s mother immediately approached his preschool to discuss her concerns, but the staff had not noticed any issues.

However, when Ollie turned three, his teacher referred him to an occupational therapist (OT) due to concerns about his classroom participation and performance.

A 25:40 Children’s Alliance South Africa occupational therapist, Petra Stadler, assessed Ollie and referred him to Grace Vision, an NGO that operates out of Zithulele Hospital and conducts outreach at Canzibe.

A breakthrough in diagnosis was finally reached when Grace Vision diagnosed Ollie with congenital bilateral cataracts and referred him to Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital for surgery.

But as life would have it, Ollie could not have the surgery he needed due to a lack of resources – a delay which deeply troubled Petra as the boy was at an age that was critical for neurological and perceptual development.

“I worried that a prolonged delay in surgery would severely stunt his learning and brain development,” Petra explained.

She soon learned about the Small Projects Foundation’s Bona Ubuntu programme, which set Ollie’s turning point in motion.

An appointment was set for the little boy to go to the ophthalmology department at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital (CMH) in East London.

With the help of Petra, prayers were finally answered, and Ollie successfully underwent cataract surgery on both eyes for free, thanks to generous intraocular lens donations from suppliers.

All of this was the collaborative efforts of CMH, 25:40 Children’s Alliance South Africa, Umbono Eyecare Project and Bona Ubuntu Programme.

His mother’s unwavering love and dedication to the organisations CMH, 25:40 Children’s Alliance South Africa, Umbono Eyecare Project and Bona Ubuntu Programme have given Ollie a second chance at life.

Petra and Ollie’s mother were overcome with emotion and gratitude, sharing:

“We are incredibly grateful to all involved for making this possible, as we are not sure what we would have done otherwise.”

Ollie’s road to recovery is still ongoing. Although he now sees clearly and is back at school, he missed out on a lot of learning due to his vision impairment. However, his mother has confirmed that since the surgery, he is doing much better.

“He is reading and starting to write now,” the grateful mother shared.

Petra continues to work with Ollie through weekly therapy sessions to help him develop the perceptual and executive functioning skills he needs to be fully prepared for Grade 1.

She is confident that Ollie’s future looks much brighter now that he has the vision to match his potential!

Please note: To protect the child’s identity as a minor, the name provided is not his real name.

Sources: Small Projects Foundation

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 Experts Come Together to Restore Little Ollie’s Vision With Cataract Surgery! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Exchanging his helmet and fire hose for chalk and textbooks, Buhle Silumko’s decision to return to school and pursue a new path is truly inspiring.

Flagstaff, South Africa (18 October 2024) – It takes immense courage to go back to school and embark on a whole new career path as an adult. In a world where many feel stuck in unfulfilling jobs, this decision is not only admirable but inspiring.

It also speaks to the bold and brave spirit of going after your dreams regardless of insignificant factors such as age, other people’s opinions or society’s standards.

Excited to embark on his calling and a new career is Buhle Silumko, who recently transitioned from being a firefighter to starting a new chapter as a primary school teacher.

The team from Working on Fire—Kishugu Joint Venture celebrated his new endeavour. They shared that Silumko, from the Mkhambathi Base in Flagstaff, pursued his Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase degree while working as a firefighter.

He was recruited in 2015 and served as a SHE Representative before he began his studies at Unisa in 2019.

“I’m grateful for the support I received from the programme and will instill the discipline I gained at Working on Fire in my students,” the new teacher shared.

Silumko’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Parting ways on good terms, Working on Fire wished him every success as he continues to inspire future generations.

Sources: Working on Fire

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 Brave Firefighter Buhle Silumko Embarks on Exciting New Chapter as a Teacher appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The St Francis Animal Rescue has had an extraordinary month, dedicated to providing care and compassion to the vulnerable animals of the Sea Vista township.

St Francis Bay, South Africa (08 October 2024) – The past month has been a very busy and rewarding one at the St Francis Animal Rescue, which has a dedicated team of animal heroes who have been working round the clock to care for the most vulnerable animals of the Sea Vista township in the Eastern Cape.

Animal welfare is a tiresome yet very rewarding calling. In September alone, the animal rescue managed to sterilise 12 dogs and two cats, treat 46 animals at the vet, vaccinate 50 dogs and pups, deworm 150 pups and provide essential care to countless others.

Beyond veterinary services, the rescue team also conducted outreach initiatives, distributing pet food and blankets to community members and selling subsidised food through local spaza shops.

These efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of both animals and their owners in the Sea Vista community.

“It’s always a little overwhelming. Dogs jumping and barking, running for joy, fighting amongst one another. Dozens and dozens of little kids, some as young as five, leading the family dog onto the field.

“Puppies in barrows, baskets and boxes to be vaccinated and dewormed. Sick and wounded dogs that need to be treated or ferried to the Humansdorp Vet Clinic. Dogs to be bathed and groomed, not all happy at the prospect.  The best thing to do is take a deep breath, set up your table and get on with helping to improve the lives of the dogs of Sea Vista,” the animal rescue said, reflecting on its unwavering commitment.

Sources: St Francis Animal Rescue

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 St Francis Animal Rescue Overwhelms Sea Vista Community With a Whole Lot of Kindness appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Named after the recently retired principal, Miss Sume, the newly unveiled Sume Centre at Charles Duna Primary School offers a bright and welcoming learning environment for young minds to thrive.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (04 October 2024) – A big, bright and welcoming state-of-the-art educational centre was unveiled at Charles Duna Primary School in the heart of New Brighton township recently.

After much planning, many proposals and countless hours toiled by university architecture students, the Sume Centre is now officially open, an innovative space designed to inspire learning and growth.

Valued at R1 million, the centre is a result of the tireless efforts and contributions of Ezethu Development Trust, Masinyusane Development Organization, Nelson Mandela University, Continental and other incredible partners.

Community leaders, education department officials and other stakeholders were present to witness the momentous occasion.

According to the Masinyusane Development Organization, the centre is named after the recently retired principal Miss Sume in recognition of her invaluable contributions to the school.

The centre boasts a ratio of one teacher to six children and will offer intensive individual attention through lots of play.

With its focus on play-based learning, the Sume Centre promises to ignite the spark of curiosity and creativity in young minds.

Sources: Masinyusane Development Organization

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 New R1 Million Educational Centre Opens at Charles Duna Primary School appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Diphatole Dlulwana was plunged into darkness four years ago, losing not only his sight but also his ability to provide for his family. His journey was filled with despair and uncertainty until a glimmer of hope appeared from Grace Vision.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (30 September 2024) – For four long, dark years, Diphatole Dlulwana endured the agonising internal battle of blindness, which robbed him of his ability to protect and provide for his family.

Sharing his story in a video shared by Grace Vision, Dlulwana disclosed that when he lost his sight, he thought it would only be something temporary.

Describing the almost instant blindness, Dlulwana said it felt like something had gone into his eye and that he tried to take it out with no success.

“I then went to various clinics, but nothing came of it. I had given up on human compassion until I got help from a doctor who connected me with Grace Vision. It had been a very difficult four years of me sitting at home unable to work as I couldn’t see.

“My wife had to take care of everything. She has been more of a man than me. Even when the dogs barked at night, she is the one who would go outside to check. Without my sight, it felt like I was dead even though I was alive,” the 69-year-old man shared.

Grace Vision helped the elderly man receive a life-changing eye surgery, which restored his sight and ended years of hardship.

“I can see now and I am very happy. On my way back home, I could barely recognise my hometown as it had changed so much, with so many new houses. I am very relieved to see again. I am very grateful to Grace Vision. If it wasn’t for them, I’d still be blind,” said a very grateful Dlulwana.

Grace Vision provides free, high-quality primary eye care to the poorest region of the poorest province in South Africa.

Sources: Grace Vision

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 Blind Man Regains Sight After 4 Years of Darkness Thanks to Grace Vision Eye Surgery appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The gift of mobility through prosthetic limbs is not just about physical restoration but will empower 15 children to dream big and reach previously unimaginable heights.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (07 August 2024) – Fifteen young lives in the Eastern Cape are about to change dramatically thanks to a life-changing initiative.

A collaborative effort between Walter Sisulu University’s Department of Rehabilitation and the Eastern Cape Health Department is providing prosthetic legs to children who have lost limbs.

The Department of Rehabilitation visited Mthatha, Gqeberha, and East London to do casting as well as pre-prosthetic fitting for the recipients.

This initiative, which came about as a commemoration of 30 years of democracy, is part of the department’s ongoing community service efforts aimed at providing essential support to local communities.

“This project is part of our service to the community. We are utilising pediatric prosthetic components from within the university, ensuring they benefit those in need,” said Walter Sisulu University lecturer, Siphosethu Mgwili.

By investing in the health and well-being of children, the initiative not only gives these youngsters a new lease on life but also contributes to the overall development of the communities within the Eastern Cape.

According to the University, the children’s new prosthetic legs will be manufactured in Mthatha and handed over to their owners at the end of August.

Sources: Walter Sisulu University

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 15 Children to Receive Prosthetic Legs Thanks to Walter Sisulu University Initiative appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Armed with extraordinary talent, Kwakhanya Gwadiso is ready to belt out his melodic voice and represent the Eastern Cape on a national stage.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (07 August 2024) – Kwakhanya Gwadiso, a 17-year-old singing sensation from Holy Cross Secondary School, is set to represent the Eastern Cape in the prestigious ABC Motsepe SASCE competition in Johannesburg from Wednesday, 07 August to Saturday, 10 August 2024.

With a track record of success and unwavering passion, this young soloist is poised to make his province proud.

The ABC Motsepe SASCE competition is a choral competition for schools in South Africa. It is part of the Department of Basic Education’s strategy for building social cohesion and promoting unity in diversity.

The competition, which is open to schools from all nine provinces, is named after Patrice Motsepe, a South African businessman and philanthropist, and is sponsored by his foundation. The competition is held annually, and the winners receive prizes and recognition.

Holy Cross Secondary School Music conductor Mr Gobingca said that since Kwakhanya joined the school choir, he has demonstrated exceptional potential, catching the attention of his peers and mentors alike.

“His dedication and passion for music have driven him to strive for recognition, and he is now on the cusp of achieving his dream”.

A social media post affirmed that Kwakhanya is ready to conquer the Johannesburg stage at the ABC Motsepe SASCE competition and his entire community is behind him, eagerly awaiting his triumphant return.

Sources: ANC Eastern Cape

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 Talented Teen Kwakhanya Gwadiso to Represent Eastern Cape at Music Competition appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Analo Tshwati spent 10 years waiting for the wheelchair she needed. Her mother carried her on her back for clinic appointments. But, her new throne finally came and Analo’s smile was brighter than ever.

Gqeberha, South Africa (20 July, 2023) — Analo Tshwati has spent the majority of her life waiting for a wheelchair. After 10 years of patience, her new throne finally rolled into her world.

Facing physical challenges since she was born, the 14-year-old’s mother took on the role of making sure mobility was possible for Analo; carrying her daughter on her back for clinic visits, for one.

The search for the right wheelchair was incredibly challenging. Wheelchairs are often not a one-size fits all decision, and finding a throne that would accommodate Analo’s body and weight as she grew was tricky.

These are just some of the factors that led to the long wait for the patient Tshwati family, alongside the monumental costs unique wheelchairs tend to tag.

However, her moment finally came after Gift of the Givers rolled in to make sure that mobility would no longer need to be something Analo has to think about with quite as much planning and restriction as before.

“The immense smile on her face radiates her excitement and deep gratitude,” shared Gift of the Givers who were just as overjoyed to make the contribution.

Meanwhile in more news that gave people smiles they’d long been waiting for, The Smile Foundation and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital are making 30 smile dreams come true this Smile Week through life-changing reconstructive surgery for children with facial abnormalities and disfigurements.

Sources: Gift of the Givers

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

Have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 A Wheelchair 10 Years in Waiting Finally Rolls into Teenager’s World appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A story of ultimate determination. After becoming orphaned in her matric year, Anelisa Mfenyana prevailed, refusing to give up on her dreams. Now, she wears her Rhodes graduation cap like a crown with a selfless future in mind.

Grahamstown, Eastern Cape (18 April, 2023) — In her matric year Rhodes University’s Anelisa Mfenyana’s life changed forever, in a way that would set most to put their dreams on the back burner.

In 2010, she had become an orphan, living on her own and forced to take care of herself. Understandably, her final year marks were impacted. Remarkably, this was only the beginning of the determined student’s story.

A handful of years and surviving off stipends later, she was bent on improving her grades and brightening her future as well as the future of others. So, when the opportunity arose to attend GADRA Matric School(an education NGO in Grahamstown/Makhanda), she saw her moment to create a second chance.

Her success there got her accepted into Rhodes University where she earned a Bachelor of Social Sciences, followed by an Honours degree in Psychology. Another notch on her belt during her honours year saw her receive the Rhodes Academic Colours.

But GADRA gave her more than just a second shot at a brighter future. It also connected her with a new family, Dr Lise and Ashley Westaway who have acted as her parents since Anelisa’s days at the school.

“Anelisa personifies determination, focus, grit, and taking chances.” — Dr Ashley Westaway, Anelisa’s mentor at GADRA.

Now, the student has become the teacher. Anelisa recently finished up her PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) and earmarked her third graduation.

Her dream to become a teacher is now her reality, and she’s already set to task working at Holy Cross Primary in Makhanda.

“What I enjoy the most is knowing that I am taking part in moulding and assisting young people in building their future.”—Anelisa Mfenyana. 

Of her story, she went on to share:

“It feels wonderful and unbelievable at times, especially when looking back to the four years I spent in the village after matric. What kept me pushing is always wanting to be a better version of myself, pave the way for children coming after me in my family, and make my late family proud.”

Source: Rhodes University

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

Have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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 Following Dreams Despite a Rocky Road: Rhodes Graduate Story Inspires  appeared first on Good Things Guy.