1. Tell us your story and what was your main goal in starting Just Breathe in Care of Cancer?
Our story at Just Breathe in Care of Cancer is deeply rooted in both personal experience and professional insight. As a practice manager fora general surgeon and a graduate of the Stellenbosch Business School, where I focused my studies on value-based healthcare, I have seen firsthand the challenges faced by cancer patients and their families. Through my education, I gained invaluable knowledge about optimising healthcare services to enhance patient outcomes.
Inspired by my studies and the collaborative efforts of the multidisciplinary team of specialists, we embarked on a mission to create a service that goes beyond traditional care models. Driven by a passion to make a tangible difference, our journey began with a commitment to empower patients and their families affected by cancer.
Our main goal in founding Just Breathe in Care of Cancer is to provide comprehensive communication and resources to cancer patients, tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. Drawing from my studies atStellenbosch Business School, we identified areas where we can enhance our service, focusing on value-based healthcare principles to optimise patient experiences and outcomes.
By offering validated communication about each patient's specific cancer and linking them to relevant resources in their region allocation, we strive to empower individuals with knowledge, guidance and hope throughout their cancer journey. At Just Breathe in Care of Cancer, we are committed to being a beacon of light in the darkest of times.
We firmly believe that no one should face cancer alone.Together, with your support and our dedication to continuous improvement, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by this relentless disease. Thank you for joining us on this journey of compassion and healing.
2. Do you think you can make a difference in the community with Just Breathe in care of Cancer?
Absolutely, at Just Breathe in Care of Cancer, we firmly believe that we can make a significant difference in the community. Our non-profit organisation is dedicated to empowering patients and their families affected by cancer by providing comprehensive communication and linking them to relevant resources.
Through our efforts, we not only strive to improve the quality of life for those battling cancer but also to foster a sense of community and solidarity among individuals facing similar challenges. By raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for better access to healthcare services, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by cancer in our community.
One of our key strategies is to establish and drive multidisciplinary discussions at Life Bayview Hospital to ensure the best decisions and treatment for our cancer patients. By bringing together a diverse team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, we facilitate open communication and collaboration to determine the most effective treatment plans for each patient. This approach not only enhances the quality of care but also helps to minimise the burden on patients and their families by streamlining the treatment process.
Through our collaborative efforts and dedication to continuous improvement, we can make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by cancer. Just Breathe in Care of Cancer is dedicated to being a beacon of hope, compassion, and support in the fight against cancer.
3. In short tell us an uplifting experience you had with your charity.
One particularly uplifting experience we had with JustBreathe in Care of Cancer was when we witnessed the impact of the breast cancer support package, we gave to a patient facing the challenges of her illness. We were able to extend a helping hand, offering not only practical resources but also a vital sense of emotional support and connection to a supportive community. Witnessing the impact of our assistance on this individual was truly uplifting. Her resilience and gratitude despite the difficulties she was facing reminded us of the importance of our mission and reinforced our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity.
4. Who partners with you and how do they give back to the community?
At Just Breathe in Care of Cancer, we are fortunate to partner with a diverse array of organisations and individuals who share our commitment to supporting those affected by cancer and giving back to the community.
Our partnerships include collaborations with local hospitals such as Life Bayview Hospital, Vidamed Day Hospital, and Kango Clinic. We also have the support of local healthcare providers, who contribute their expertise, resources, and facilities to help us deliver comprehensive care to cancer patients. Specifically key to our success are all our local surgeons, urologists, physicians, gynaecologists, Eden Oncology, Mossel Bay Radiology, and our laboratories, Ampath, Pathcare, and Lancet. Through these partnerships, we can ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment and support throughout their journey.
Additionally, we closely follow other community organisations, advocacy groups, and nonprofit foundations dedicated to cancer research, education, and support services. These partnerships allow us to access additional resources, raise awareness, and advocate for better access to communication materials and support packages for cancer patients and their families.
Furthermore, we are grateful for the support of corporate sponsors, donors, and volunteers who generously contribute their time, resources, and financial support to our cause. Their contributions enable us to continue and expand our services, reach more individuals in need, and make a greater impact in Mossel Bay and the surrounding community.
In return, our partners benefit from the knowledge that they are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer in our community. Whether through direct involvement in our initiatives or through financial support and donations, each partner plays a vital role in helping us achieve our mission of providing hope, support, and healing to individuals and families facing cancer. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.
5. Being a leader in your field - we want to thank you but also ask for advice - if somebody has an idea like you had, how do they start? Please give us 5 pointers
Thank you for your kind words. Starting an organisation likeJust Breathe in Care of Cancer requires passion, dedication, and teamwork. Here are five pointers for someone looking to embark on a similar journey:
1. Identify Your Passion and Purpose: Begin by reflecting on your personal experiences, interests, and areas of passion.What issues or challenges resonate with you deeply? In addition, clarify your business mission and purpose, ensuring that the charity initiative not only aligns with your values and goals but also that of your business.
2. Conduct Research and Needs Assessment:Take the time to research the landscape of the issue you're passionate about, including existing organisations, resources, and gaps in services. Conduct a needs assessment to identify the specific needs and challenges faced by the community you aim to serve.
3. Build a Strong Network and Partnerships:Cultivate relationships with individuals, organisations, and stakeholders who share your passion and can offer support, expertise, and resources. Only through a team effort can such an initiative get off to a good start. In our case, it is critical to collaborate with healthcare professionals, community leaders, and relevant healthcare corporations to leverage their knowledge and networks.It is also essential to obtain the required funding to sustain our projects. We can also only execute our projects with the support and dedication of caring volunteers.
4. Establish the organisation correctly: Ensure that your non-profit organisation is set up properly by registering it in the appropriate legal jurisdictions and obtaining any necessary licenses or permits. Seek legal and financial advice, including tax-exempt status, governance structure, and compliance with relevant regulations. Establishing a strong legal foundation will provide credibility, protect your organisation, and ensure that stakeholders and sponsors support your efforts
5. Take controlled action and adapt to feedback:Only take on what the volunteering team can implement. We can undertake one big project and combine it with smaller initiatives throughout the year. We remain flexible and adapt our approach based on the needs and feedback of the healthcare serviceproviders and the patients we serve. Stay committed to your mission, persevere through challenges, and celebrate your successes along the way.
Remember, making a difference in your community requires passion, perseverance, and collaboration. With determination and dedication, you can turn your idea into a reality and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
