A cancer survivor from Bloemfontein has set herself the mission of spreading hope to survivors and raising awareness for those who are fighting this illness. Jennet Gentles (38) says she plans to begin this journey in February.
This ties in with her celebrating her reign as Miss Cancer Survivor. Gentles was crowned in December 2023.
The pageant aims at encouraging cancer survivors to participate in activities that give hope and showcase their talent. The pageant, organised by the Chief Leeuw Foundation, is held annually in Bloemfontein.
“My journey will start on 3 February, marking World Cancer Day on 4 February. This will be in the form of hosting an aerobics session. I will also be sharing my journey as a cancer survivor,” says Gentles.
“This will continue during Kidney Cancer Awareness Month, which is commemorated in March. I am encouraging everyone to be part of the #OrangeUp campaign.”
Gentles was diagnosed with kidney cancer.
“Kidney cancer impacts on people’s lives. It is fitting to educate the public, raising awareness about kidney cancer, and sharing information about the symptoms.” ’n
Gentles said she would be supported by organisations, survivors and their families to mobilise support to spread hope about cancer. A gala dinner will be held as part of the campaign.
Gentles discovered she had cancer upon the birth of her daughter.
“I experienced terrible back pain, which I thought was after-birth effects. The unbearable pain forced me to seek aid from various doctors. It wasn’t until I was referred by a urologist to a nephrologist that I discovered I had kidney cancer.
“The nephrologist requested a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scan, which confirmed a 8 cm tumour.
“After a successful nephrectomy, it took two years for the remaining kidney to function normally,” said Gentles.
She said she was unaware of kidney cancer.
“I am a survivor for eight years now, by the grace of God alone. A healthy diet and lifestyle is very important, and kidney function, blood pressure and glucose levels must be religiously monitored.
“We should take every change experienced in the body very seriously, and seek aid to save lifes,” believes Gentles.
