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In collaboration with Kalafong Hospital, Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, the Department of Health, the City of Tshwane and M&M Marketing, the Tobeka Madiba Zuma (TMZ) Foundation conducted two hospital visits earlier today to commemorate World Cancer Day.  During the day, Madam Zuma shared with patients and their families her hopes and dreams for a healthier South Africa.

“Today, I wish to reach out to all those who are gripped by the disease and those who are continuing to struggle against it,” said Madam Zuma, as she handed out refreshments and snacks to the patients at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital.

“I’m here because I want people to know that at the TMZ Foundation we are working tirelessly to raise awareness on Cancer and other non-communicable diseases. These diseases can be largely prevented with early diagnosis, available screening and accessible healthcare.”

Approximately 30 members of the TMZ Foundation, led by Madam Zuma, Patron and Founder of the TMZ Foundation, attended the day’s visits, including survivors, people who are newly diagnosed, families and community support leaders.

“We are happy to welcome and work together with the TMZ Foundation in the service of our communities,” said Dr Freddy Kgongwana, acting CEO of the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. “Our Breast Oncology Clinic will definitely benefit from the collaboration in order to achieve a healthy life for all in our country.”

Later in the evening, Madam Zuma hosted a “Thank You” gala dinner at Emperor’s Palace, Johannesburg, to thank the partners of the TMZ Foundation for their support. At the dinner, beneficiaries of the Foundation and cancer survivors spoke about their experiences. “Living with cancer is not an easy journey. But we have hope—I have hope—and the Foundation gives us that,” said Nondumiso Ngozwana, a cancer survivor of 27 years.

Eighty two per cent of deaths due to cancer occur in developing countries where access to prevention services such as education, the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and lifesaving pre -cancer screening and early treatment is limited.

Issued by Tobeka Madiba Zuma Foundation