Childhood cancer is a diagnosis no family should have to go through alone. Yet, every day across South Africa, countless families wake up to this life-altering reality.
The journey is one of immense challenges, but it’s also one where love, community and compassion can make all the difference.
On Valentine’s Day (Friday 14 February), Flip Flop Day 2025 offers South Africans a chance to stand in solidarity with children who have been diagnosed with cancer. Hosted by the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), the campaign calls on South Africans to unite – sole by sole, flip flop by flip-flop – and prove that together we’re stronger than any challenge.
Flip Flop Day is an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for children diagnosed with cancer and their families. For just R10, participants can purchase a sticker and wear their flip flops with pride on Friday.
This simple yet powerful gesture sends a message of hope and unity, showing children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer that they are not alone. It’s love in action, compassion in every step.
Flip Flop Day 2025 is calling for “sole mates” who are ready to step up for this life-changing cause. Whether you’re an individual, a school, a corporate or a volunteer, the campaign is an opportunity to show love and solidarity with children and families facing the toughest battle of their lives. “When we come together our soles are unstoppable,” a statement from CHOC reads. “From bustling boardrooms to vibrant classrooms, from the seaside to the city, let’s flip into action and prove that love truly conquers all.”
When a child or teenager is diagnosed with cancer the difficult journey for the entire family begins. For Lebo, a bright 8-year-old who once spent her days running around her schoolyard, the diagnosis of leukaemia turned her world upside down.
The once-vibrant laughter in her home was replaced with worry as her parents struggled to understand the medical terms, treatment schedules and emotional toll. That’s when CHOC stepped in with psycho-social support, the foundation of their care.
Through counselling and emotional support the CHOC team helped Lebo’s parents navigate the fears of treatment, providing them with tools to comfort their daughter through her toughest days.
She found ways to express feelings she couldn’t put into words, and her parents found strength in connecting with other families facing similar challenges. “The psychosocial support we received gave us hope,” her mom shared. “It taught us to be strong for Lebo, to bring laughter back into our home and face each new day together.”
This is the heart of CHOC’s work. Every sticker purchased for Flip Flop Day contributes to programmes such as these, offering tailored emotional, social and practical support that makes an immeasurable difference to children, teenagers and their families.
Leading the charge for the campaign is Flippie, SA’s favourite and most beloved CHOC sole-dier. Flippie is passionate about spreading compassion and rallying support for children on the toughest journey of their lives.
“Flip Flop Day is more than a fundraiser – it’s a celebration of unity, empathy, and love,” CHOC further said.
Among the life-changing support services the internationally recognised NPO offers are emotional and practical support as well as education on the Siluan Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer.
With more than 1 500 children in its care at any given time, CHOC’s mission is to ensure no family walks this journey alone.
“Flip Flop Day is more than just a fun event; it’s a movement of kindness and support,” said CHOC CEO Hedley Lewis. “By flipping on your flip flops and donating R10, you’re stepping up to make a real difference in the lives of children and teens battling cancer. It’s a simple act that shows we care and that we stand together. Let’s turn every step into a stride of hope and solidarity.”
Tekkie Town is the official retail partner of Flip Flop Day. Said Julie Mostert, head of marketing: “It is always our privilege to work with CHOC and support its annual Flip Flop Day in our stores nationally. Cancer and its effects are a cause close to many of our hearts, and if in this small way we can amplify awareness and drive support for this team we will. Tekkie Town is proud to partner with CHOC and other fellow partners to make this Flip Flop Day the perfect way to show your love and care.”
Flip Flop Day 2025 is bigger and better than ever. Supporters can get their stickers at Tekkie Town, CHOC regional offices, or online at www.choc.org.za. On 14 February wear your flip flops or Ipanema’s, and, of course, your stickers to show your support for the worthy cause.
Whether you’re hosting a fundraiser at work, organising a school event or simply stepping out in your flip flops, your participation makes a world of difference.
