AFTER losing her daughter to cancer in 2013, Chantal Jordaan has made it her mission to raise funds for children with cancer and on February 29, as part of fundraising for cancer, she will be hosting a red-carpet gala dinner at Running Waters in Kragga Kamma Road.
Jordaan said, whether someone is worried about cancer, dealing with diagnosis and treatment or supporting a relative, friend or colleague, they should not have to stand alone.
Her aim is to provide access to correct information to ensure people get the answers they need, including assisting terminally ill children with cancer.
“To do this, I raise funds in order to partner with specialist organisations such as CANSA in Port Elizabeth. They provide outreach and educational programmes to improve cancer awareness, help people know how to reduce the risk of cancer and aid early diagnosis,” said Jordaan.
Jordaan’s daughter, Gabi Africander, was diagnosed with malignant neoplasm, a cancerous tumour in the brain in 2009 and she died in 2013 when she was just 11 years old.
Jordaan, who has one son aged 14, has since been dedicated to making a difference by helping children who face the challenge of dealing with cancer in their lives. Her drive and passion have already helped aid treatment for children.
With two high tea events hosted thus far, Jordaan has successfully raised R111 270 for CANSA Port Elizabeth.
This year, she is hoping to sell tickets to her red carpet gala dinner for R350 per person.
Jordaan, who won the best community outreach individual award at the Gabriel Global Gospel Awards last year, said she was aware that R350 for a ticket was pricey, but she wanted people to know that it was for a good cause.
During the gala dinner, a main course and dessert will be served. There will also be entertainment, lucky draws and an opportunity for people to dance and enjoy themselves.
To end off the gala event, there will be a surprise item for auction. Despite her passion for fund-raising, this will, however, be Jordaan’s last event and instead she plans to start a foundation in her daughter’s honour in which she will work more closely with cancer patients.
“Gabi was lucky in the sense that her parents had stable jobs and a monthly income to care for her, but not everyone is that fortunate,” said Jordaan. “I feel like I need to give back and make a difference in the lives of children with cancer. I want to be able to put a smile on each child’s face.”
Jordaan said her experience was a roller coaster journey, but she believes that if God could carry her, He can do the same for other families dealing with cancer.
To purchase tickets to the gala dinner, or for more information, contact Chantal Jordaan on 083 809 3776.
