IN the humble township of Zwide, Gqeberha, a young girl’s courageous fight against cancer inspired a community to rally around her.
Earlier this year, Lichumile Mzizi, an 11-year-old cancer survivor, faced unimaginable challenges, but her spirit remained unbroken.
Mzizi’s mother, Siphokazi Mzizi, has been her rock throughout the journey. Despite struggling to make ends meet and facing difficulties with transport and finances for her daughter’s treatment, Siphokazi remains grateful for the support they have received.
“God has sent angels in the form of humans to help us. The school, Isaac Booi Primary School, the parents of the learners, and the community have been a blessing,” she said.
“After that first story in the PE Express, the principal, Ludwe Memese, told me about people who had contacted him wanting to make donations. We didn’t receive a lot of money, just enough for my daily hospital visits and to buy my baby girl fruit while admitted, just so she didn’t have to be reminded that we don’t have much, but we also received clothing donations, well-wishes and prayers. That meant a lot to me.”
After finally receiving medical attention at Livingstone Hospital, her surgery was scheduled, and although it was a tough one, it was successful.
“My daughter’s very caring doctor said it was a miracle she was still alive, because of the three tumours in her brain; one had doubled in size,” the mother of three said.
Siphokazi recalled the emotional moment Mzizi woke up from a long, difficult surgery, breathing on her own, and waving at the hospital staff.
“It was a miracle. She showed us she’s a fighter,” Siphokazi said, her voice filled with emotion.
As Mzizi undergoes weekly chemo- and physiotherapy sessions at Livingstone Hospital, her mother continues to coach young local rugby talent. Siphokazi still seeks employment but remains committed to her daughter’s recovery and the well-being of their community.
Mzizi’s story comes when the Eastern Cape Department of Health recently made significant progress in the fight against cancer. In May, Health MEC, Nomakhosazana Meth, unveiled new oncology equipment at Livingstone Hospital, including a R60 million linear accelerator, a R37 million CT scanner, and a R10 million fluoroscopy unit. This investment aims at improving cancer treatment in the province.
Despite the challenges ahead, Mzizi remains full of life and refuses to give up. She’s eager to return to school next year and continues to inspire those around her.
“I’m not going to let cancer beat me. I’m going to beat it,” she said, even though her speech has not fully recovered since surgery.
Siphokazi’s pride in her daughter is hard to miss.
“Lichumile’s strength and courage have taught me to never give up. She’s my little hero,” she said.
As they face the journey ahead, the Mzizi family remains grateful for the support of the school and the dedicated medical staff who have become like family to them.
