A spirited young rugby enthusiast battling a life-threatening illness, experienced the dream of a lifetime at the iconic Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Thandolwethu Mokoena (11) met the Free State Cheetahs players on 20 August during a practise session. Much to his joy, he could exchange words with Andisa Ntsila along with the other Cheetahs and Springbok legend, Ruan Pienaar.
For the youngster, meeting the heroes of his favourite sport was a testimony to the power of dreams. Thandolwethu’s dream became a reality courtesy of the Reach for a Dream Foundation, with the objective of inspiring hope and courage in children facing life-threatening illnesses.
The non-profit organisation’s (NPO) mission is to encourage children aged three to 18 years to use their dreams to combat their illnesses and inspire hope. Thandolwethu was given the opportunity to do just that, with parallels drawn between the heroic spirit he experienced in the presence of the players and the way in which he inspires heroism himself.
Thandolwethu’s experience at the stadium was made unforgettable.
Ruan
This played out in two ways. Firstly, by being presented with a signed rugby ball – a treasured keepsake of this once-in-a-lifetime moment. Secondly, having Ntsila, who hails from Komani (Queenstown), gifting the sports fan a brand new tablet.
The Cheetahs team made Thandolwethu feel like one of their own, offering their heartfelt support ahead of his surgery the following day.
- The Reach for a Dream Foundation’s sustainability is centered around programmes that are funded solely by corporate and individual donations.
