Latest news with #Cansa
The Herald
14-06-2025
- Sport
- The Herald
42nd Knysna Oyster Festival gearing up for a feast of action
There is 21km and a full 42km option. There are lots of repeat customers coming back more than once to run this marathon because it goes through the forest, with spectacular views of the estuary and iconic Knysna Heads in the last section. 'It's just amazing to start and then run through the forest, the views are incredible. It's quite unlike any other run,' said Wayne Kidd, who is involved in organising the marathon, and just ran his 23rd Comrades. He said the event just kept growing in popularity, with both the 21km and 42km races sold out. There are some 6,500 runners doing the half-marathon and 1,250 doing the full run in 2025 Runners come from the Eastern and Western Cape, and as far afield as Gauteng. In 2025, 28 overseas runners from far off shores such as China, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Britain, will also be participating. Then there is the iconic Houtkapper Trail Run on Sunday, July 6. This event offers three distances, each winding through indigenous forest in Krisjan-se-Nek. It's one of the festival's most iconic off-road runs and again popular because where else in the world do you get to run in a forest? For a more relaxed experience, join the 3km Family Adventure Walk at Blackwaters River Lodge on Friday, July 4. Walk or run the 5km for Cansa on July 6 or take the whole family for the festive RAP Knysna Colour run on July 12. Runners are spoilt for choice as there is also the scenic Simola Sunset Wine Run on July 10. The KnysnaX Trail Series Winter Run is also on July 10 and the Choo-Tjoe Ultra Trail Run on July 13 is special because it follows the path of the historic railway route. Even the local 5km Saturday parkruns will start and finish at the Knysna High School Sports Field, part of the festival hub. There are two soccer tournaments to look out for, there is a rugby tournament, mini-hockey and netball. You name it, the Knysna Oyster Festival has it all. After the first weekend, pedal power kicks in with the Knysna Cycle Tour and three days of cycling. It starts on Friday July 11 with the Forest Enduro and Criterium Rides and offers biking adventures through the forests. There is a serious 86km, 56km or a 30km route. On July 5, the Canoe Polo Tournament will bring some excitement to the Knysna Waterfront. The Harbour 2 Heads Lagoon Challenge, on July 13, is a spectacular 12km or 24km paddle on the estuary. In previous years, it had record entries of 89 boats and 123 paddlers taking part, and in 2025 it promises to be just as successful. There is also a Padel Challenge at Simola Country Estate, and the Oyster Betterball golf championship on July 11. The Oyster Festival, previously called the Winter Festival, was started in 1983. Late local businessman Dick Ginsberg got together with the manager of the Knysna Publicity Association, Rose Smith, to organise an event that would bring business into town during the quietest times of the year for local hospitality businesses and restaurants. By the mid-'80s, it was renamed the Knysna Oyster Festival, and while it has weathered all sorts of storms — the fires in 2017 and then Covid (it was virtual in 2020 and then a hybrid event in 2021) — it is still going strong. The festival has morphed over the years and it would be fair to say the theme has shifted away from events that used to be drawcards to an emphasis on high-profile sporting attractions. The town literally comes alive and there are all sorts of attractions to coax locals out of their winter burrows. When it comes to oysters, they pop up in eateries across the town. Oysters are no longer farmed in Knysna, having failed to thrive in the estuary, but there are still the coastal kind — which come from rocks pools on local beaches along a 250km coastline, while cultivated oysters are also brought into Knysna from Gqeberha and the Agulhas area. Some 500,000 coastal oysters are harvested each year in the country, compared to 4.5 million cultivated oysters. The coastal oyster is bigger and has a briny taste, while the cultivated oyster is more buttery and subtle. It was said in 2024 that the Knysna Quartet of Restaurants (Drydock, 34 South, Sirocco and Tapas) went through about 15,000 cultivated oysters and 20,000 of the coastal variety during the festival. Total oyster sales in Knysna and surrounds were up 20%. Apart from sporty things and oysters, the Knysna Wine Festival takes place on July 4 and 5 at Simola Hotel. It has a reputation of showcasing wine from up to 50 estates from the Cape winelands and, of course, the Garden Route wineries. It's always difficult to write about this fest because how long is a ball of string and there is so much to do. Join the action and be part of the festival, whether you're actively participating and competing or just cheering from the sidelines. Check out the full programme at
The Citizen
10-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
CANSA launches online support network for cancer survivors
Each June, global attention turns to the impact of cancer on survivors, their caregivers, loved ones, families, and others within their support circle. Often, these individuals simply need someone to talk to about their cancer journey. The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) has launched a new online platform, offering yet another way to connect people to caring cancer communities. This month, people around the world honour those facing cancer and recognise the importance of a supportive community. 'Many cancer survivors report feeling isolated from the moment they are diagnosed,' said Gretchen Minnaar, Cansa's services manager: psychosocial support. 'They often find that friends, colleagues, and even some family members avoid them, rather than offering comfort or simply being present.' Furthermore, a survivor's need for support does not end with a clean bill of health. Many face long-term challenges, including fear of recurrence, depression, pain, memory problems, changes in bodily functions, and relationship issues. Cansa provides extensive support to survivors and others affected by this devastating disease—and the need is significant. Each year, over 115 000 South Africans are diagnosed with cancer, according to the South African National Cancer Registry. Many more cases go unreported or unregistered. To help meet this growing need, Cansa has launched a virtual support group to expand the reach of its existing services, which include face-to-face support groups as well as Facebook and WhatsApp support groups across South Africa. ALSO CHECK: DEMS intensifies winter safety awareness across Ekurhuleni The new virtual support group, launched on May 24, is facilitated by Cansa and held monthly via Zoom. Managed by trained counsellors, each session covers different topics in a relaxed, supportive environment that encourages engagement and input from survivors. Cansa's WhatsApp support groups operate both nationally and regionally. Regional groups are limited to patients in specific areas, while national groups cater to bereavement, caregiver, and newly diagnosed patient support. Additional groups are available for women survivors, men survivors, ostomy patients, and teens aged 13 to 17. On Facebook, Cansa runs three support groups: * Cancer Survivors – Champions of Hope (for cancer survivors in treatment or remission) * Caring for the Caregivers (for caregivers of cancer patients) * TLC – Childhood Cancer Support (for children and their parents/guardians affected by cancer) * Survivor Wendy de Rooij noted that more treatment facilities should inform patients about Cansa's support groups. 'I would not have found my amazing group if it weren't for a desperate late-night Google search,' she said. 'These people have given me far more practical information than any other healthcare group I've encountered since my cancer journey began.' The support groups encourage members to share their stories. 'Interacting with people who understand your lived experience is an invaluable form of support. It's so beneficial to hear about the coping strategies of someone who has been—or is currently—in the same situation as you,' added Minnaar. ALSO CHECK: Germiston audience inspired by blind man's Kilimanjaro climb Ovarian cancer survivor Rina van der Merwe shared that during her treatment and recovery, Cansa's support groups always gave her a safe space to talk. 'And reading about other warriors' journeys also helped me a lot,' she said. Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and others affected by cancer can join one of these groups by completing a form on Cansa's website at Support is currently available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and isiZulu. The organisation remains committed to connecting people facing cancer with vital information, day-to-day assistance, and emotional support—ensuring no one has to face cancer alone. Please note: • Patients, survivors, and others affected by cancer must contact Cansa directly for support. • Cansa is not informed of patient treatment by medical centres and requires patient permission to make contact. • Cansa does not provide treatment. • Cansa is not authorised to prescribe or supply medication. • Cansa's clinical specialist nurse offers free advice on managing cancer, pain, and treatment side effects. For more information or to seek support, visit At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
09-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Cansa introduces online network to support cancer survivors
Each June, global attention turns to the impact of cancer on survivors, their caregivers, loved ones, families, and others within their support circle. Often, these individuals simply need someone to talk to about their cancer journey. The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) has launched a new online platform, offering yet another way to connect people to caring cancer communities. ALSO READ: Cansa takes stand against youth vaping This month, people around the world honour those facing cancer and recognise the importance of a supportive community. 'Many cancer survivors report feeling isolated from the moment they are diagnosed,' said Gretchen Minnaar, Cansa's services manager: psychosocial support. 'They often find that friends, colleagues, and even some family members avoid them, rather than offering comfort or simply being present.' Furthermore, a survivor's need for support does not end with a clean bill of health. Many face long-term challenges, including fear of recurrence, depression, pain, memory problems, changes in bodily functions, and relationship issues. Cansa provides extensive support to survivors and others affected by this devastating disease—and the need is significant. ALSO READ: Give back on #GivingTuesday with Cansa's eShop Each year, over 115 000 South Africans are diagnosed with cancer, according to the South African National Cancer Registry. Many more cases go unreported or unregistered. To help meet this growing need, Cansa has launched a virtual support group to expand the reach of its existing services, which include face-to-face support groups as well as Facebook and WhatsApp support groups across South Africa. The new virtual support group, launched on May 24, is facilitated by Cansa and held monthly via Zoom. Managed by trained counsellors, each session covers different topics in a relaxed, supportive environment that encourages engagement and input from survivors. ALSO READ: Cansa tackles prostate among men to mark Health Awareness Month Cansa's WhatsApp support groups operate both nationally and regionally. Regional groups are limited to patients in specific areas, while national groups cater to bereavement, caregiver, and newly diagnosed patient support. Additional groups are available for women survivors, men survivors, ostomy patients, and teens aged 13 to 17. On Facebook, Cansa runs three support groups: Cancer Survivors – Champions of Hope (for cancer survivors in treatment or remission) Caring for the Caregivers (for caregivers of cancer patients) TLC – Childhood Cancer Support (for children and their parents/guardians affected by cancer) Survivor Wendy de Rooij noted that more treatment facilities should inform patients about Cansa's support groups. 'I would not have found my amazing group if it weren't for a desperate late-night Google search,' she said. 'These people have given me far more practical information than any other healthcare group I've encountered since my cancer journey began.' The support groups encourage members to share their stories. 'Interacting with people who understand your lived experience is an invaluable form of support,' added Minnaar. 'It's so beneficial to hear about the coping strategies of someone who has been—or is currently—in the same situation as you.' ALSO READ: Cansa puts cervical cancer in the spotlight Ovarian cancer survivor Rina van der Merwe shared that during her treatment and recovery, Cansa's support groups always gave her a safe space to talk. 'And reading about other warriors' journeys also helped me a lot,' she said. Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and others affected by cancer can join one of these groups by completing a form on Cansa's website at Support is currently available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and isiZulu. The organisation remains committed to connecting people facing cancer with vital information, day-to-day assistance, and emotional support—ensuring no one has to face cancer alone. Please note: • Patients, survivors, and others affected by cancer must contact Cansa directly for support. • Cansa is not informed of patient treatment by medical centres and requires patient permission to make contact. • Cansa does not provide treatment. • Cansa is not authorised to prescribe or supply medication. • Cansa's clinical specialist nurse offers free advice on managing cancer, pain, and treatment side effects. For more information or to seek support, visit At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
The Citizen
08-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Cansa launches virtual cancer support group to combat isolation
Each June, global attention turns to the impact of cancer on survivors, their caregivers, loved ones, families, and others within their support circle. Often, these individuals simply need someone to talk to about their cancer journey. The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) has launched a new online platform, offering yet another way to connect people to caring cancer communities. ALSO READ: Cansa takes stand against youth vaping This month, people around the world honour those facing cancer and recognise the importance of a supportive community. 'Many cancer survivors report feeling isolated from the moment they are diagnosed,' said Gretchen Minnaar, Cansa's services manager: psychosocial support. 'They often find that friends, colleagues, and even some family members avoid them, rather than offering comfort or simply being present.' Furthermore, a survivor's need for support does not end with a clean bill of health. Many face long-term challenges, including fear of recurrence, depression, pain, memory problems, changes in bodily functions, and relationship issues. Cansa provides extensive support to survivors and others affected by this devastating disease—and the need is significant. ALSO READ: Give back on #GivingTuesday with Cansa's eShop Each year, over 115 000 South Africans are diagnosed with cancer, according to the South African National Cancer Registry. Many more cases go unreported or unregistered. To help meet this growing need, Cansa has launched a virtual support group to expand the reach of its existing services, which include face-to-face support groups as well as Facebook and WhatsApp support groups across South Africa. The new virtual support group, launched on May 24, is facilitated by Cansa and held monthly via Zoom. Managed by trained counsellors, each session covers different topics in a relaxed, supportive environment that encourages engagement and input from survivors. ALSO READ: Cansa tackles prostate among men to mark Health Awareness Month Cansa's WhatsApp support groups operate both nationally and regionally. Regional groups are limited to patients in specific areas, while national groups cater to bereavement, caregiver, and newly diagnosed patient support. Additional groups are available for women survivors, men survivors, ostomy patients, and teens aged 13 to 17. On Facebook, Cansa runs three support groups: Cancer Survivors – Champions of Hope (for cancer survivors in treatment or remission) Caring for the Caregivers (for caregivers of cancer patients) TLC – Childhood Cancer Support (for children and their parents/guardians affected by cancer) Survivor Wendy de Rooij noted that more treatment facilities should inform patients about Cansa's support groups. 'I would not have found my amazing group if it weren't for a desperate late-night Google search,' she said. 'These people have given me far more practical information than any other healthcare group I've encountered since my cancer journey began.' The support groups encourage members to share their stories. 'Interacting with people who understand your lived experience is an invaluable form of support,' added Minnaar. 'It's so beneficial to hear about the coping strategies of someone who has been—or is currently—in the same situation as you.' ALSO READ: Cansa puts cervical cancer in the spotlight Ovarian cancer survivor Rina van der Merwe shared that during her treatment and recovery, Cansa's support groups always gave her a safe space to talk. 'And reading about other warriors' journeys also helped me a lot,' she said. Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and others affected by cancer can join one of these groups by completing a form on Cansa's website at Support is currently available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and isiZulu. The organisation remains committed to connecting people facing cancer with vital information, day-to-day assistance, and emotional support—ensuring no one has to face cancer alone. Please note: • Patients, survivors, and others affected by cancer must contact Cansa directly for support. • Cansa is not informed of patient treatment by medical centres and requires patient permission to make contact. • Cansa does not provide treatment. • Cansa is not authorised to prescribe or supply medication. • Cansa's clinical specialist nurse offers free advice on managing cancer, pain, and treatment side effects. For more information or to seek support, visit At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
08-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Cansa unveils virtual support network for cancer survivors
Each June, global attention turns to the impact of cancer on survivors, their caregivers, loved ones, families, and others within their support circle. Often, these individuals simply need someone to talk to about their cancer journey. The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) has launched a new online platform, offering yet another way to connect people to caring cancer communities. ALSO READ: Cansa takes stand against youth vaping This month, people around the world honour those facing cancer and recognise the importance of a supportive community. 'Many cancer survivors report feeling isolated from the moment they are diagnosed,' said Gretchen Minnaar, Cansa's services manager: psychosocial support. 'They often find that friends, colleagues, and even some family members avoid them, rather than offering comfort or simply being present.' Furthermore, a survivor's need for support does not end with a clean bill of health. Many face long-term challenges, including fear of recurrence, depression, pain, memory problems, changes in bodily functions, and relationship issues. Cansa provides extensive support to survivors and others affected by this devastating disease—and the need is significant. ALSO READ: Give back on #GivingTuesday with Cansa's eShop Each year, over 115 000 South Africans are diagnosed with cancer, according to the South African National Cancer Registry. Many more cases go unreported or unregistered. To help meet this growing need, Cansa has launched a virtual support group to expand the reach of its existing services, which include face-to-face support groups as well as Facebook and WhatsApp support groups across South Africa. The new virtual support group, launched on May 24, is facilitated by Cansa and held monthly via Zoom. Managed by trained counsellors, each session covers different topics in a relaxed, supportive environment that encourages engagement and input from survivors. ALSO READ: Cansa tackles prostate among men to mark Health Awareness Month Cansa's WhatsApp support groups operate both nationally and regionally. Regional groups are limited to patients in specific areas, while national groups cater to bereavement, caregiver, and newly diagnosed patient support. Additional groups are available for women survivors, men survivors, ostomy patients, and teens aged 13 to 17. On Facebook, Cansa runs three support groups: Cancer Survivors – Champions of Hope (for cancer survivors in treatment or remission) Caring for the Caregivers (for caregivers of cancer patients) TLC – Childhood Cancer Support (for children and their parents/guardians affected by cancer) Survivor Wendy de Rooij noted that more treatment facilities should inform patients about Cansa's support groups. 'I would not have found my amazing group if it weren't for a desperate late-night Google search,' she said. 'These people have given me far more practical information than any other healthcare group I've encountered since my cancer journey began.' The support groups encourage members to share their stories. 'Interacting with people who understand your lived experience is an invaluable form of support,' added Minnaar. 'It's so beneficial to hear about the coping strategies of someone who has been—or is currently—in the same situation as you.' ALSO READ: Cansa puts cervical cancer in the spotlight Ovarian cancer survivor Rina van der Merwe shared that during her treatment and recovery, Cansa's support groups always gave her a safe space to talk. 'And reading about other warriors' journeys also helped me a lot,' she said. Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and others affected by cancer can join one of these groups by completing a form on Cansa's website at Support is currently available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and isiZulu. The organisation remains committed to connecting people facing cancer with vital information, day-to-day assistance, and emotional support—ensuring no one has to face cancer alone. Please note: • Patients, survivors, and others affected by cancer must contact Cansa directly for support. • Cansa is not informed of patient treatment by medical centres and requires patient permission to make contact. • Cansa does not provide treatment. • Cansa is not authorised to prescribe or supply medication. • Cansa's clinical specialist nurse offers free advice on managing cancer, pain, and treatment side effects. For more information or to seek support, visit At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
