Various beautiful hats, like those seen at the prestige Durban July horse racing or during the annual opening of parliament in Cape Town, are among the attire from the late Stella-Jane Matras from Kariega, that was donated to the Cancer Association of South Africa.
“She loved to look beautiful. And it was her wish to pass on all those beautiful dresses, hats, and handbags she loved so much, to bless other women who are cancer survivors,” said Vernon Matras, husband of the late Stella-Jane, who passed away on 31 May 2021 at the age of 68.
“She was diagnosed with cancer twice in her lifetime. During those difficult times and treatments, the support she received from the Cancer Association of South Africa meant the world to her. She therefore told me: ‘Daddy, for nobody to point fingers or to ask questions, give all my dresses, handbags and hats to CANSA. Finish and klaar’,” said Vernon.
Vernon, a retired educator and cancer survivor said he and Stella used to support all the local CANSA walks as well as various other charity related fundraising events. In one of the rooms at home, several medals from all the fun walks they have enjoyed, are hanging from the ceiling.
Whilst showing his late wife’s attire, Vernon on a less serious note said, “My wife nearly ruined my pocket. Believe me when she went into a shop I was shivering. But I loved to spoil her and would give her my card and say, ‘swipe my dear’.”
Vernon said that his children know that he, being a cancer survivor, would also like his suits and attire to be donated to CANSA one day after he has passed on.
