At just 19 years old, five-time cancer survivor Donelle Johnson is a model, author, and ambassador proving that a diagnosis is only a chapter of your life, never the final story.
Bloemfontein, South Africa (27 August 2026) – While the reality of childhood cancer is toughest on those living it, real-life testimonies offer comforting assurance that there is life beyond the diagnosis.
Take Donelle Johnson. At just 19 years old, she is already making her mark as a model, motivational speaker, and official ambassador for the Trevor Barlow Library. She is also an aspiring lawyer and author, currently writing her memoir.
Her cancer journey began when she was only three months old. Having faced cancer five times since 2007, her experience has shaped her resilience, strengthened her faith, and inspired her to encourage others.
In 2014, while receiving treatment for cancer in her right arm, Donelle experienced a severe allergic reaction that led to a heart attack. Having to change treatment and begin again brought new challenges and side effects, but it also reminded her of her determination to keep moving forward.
Reading has offered Donelle comfort and an escape during long days in hospital. Today, she expresses herself through fashion and modelling, while her love of literature continues to inspire her dream of publishing her own book.
Throughout her journey, Donelle was also supported by CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa.
“CHOC has been a strong anchor throughout this journey,” Donelle shares.
“They have supported my family and me practically and emotionally, and helped make my childhood within hospital walls brighter. Most importantly, they reminded us that we were never alone or forgotten.”
Donelle credits her mother as one of her greatest sources of strength. Her hopes for the future include returning to the runway, publishing her memoir and becoming a lawyer so that she can advocate for others.
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“A diagnosis is not your whole story; it is only one part of it. Keep moving forward and continue believing in the future you want to create. This is not the end of your story.”
Have a Heart This September
AS CHOC turns its heart towards September, International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the charity is inviting you to Have a Heart: learn the signs, listen to their stories, wear gold, share hope and support families.
“September is International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to stand together for children and teenagers affected by cancer and life-threatening blood disorders, and the families who walk alongside them,” CHOC says.
This year, CHOC invites South Africans to Have a Heart by taking simple but meaningful action:
- Learn the SILUAN Early Warning Signs
- Listen to families’ stories
- Wear gold
- Share hope
- Support those navigating the childhood cancer journey
For just R300, you can provide a child and their caregiver with a safe, supportive place to stay at a CHOC House for one night.
Awareness can lead to earlier detection, while compassionate support can help families feel less alone during an uncertain and overwhelming time. Throughout September, CHOC will share important information, inspiring stories and practical ways for individuals, schools, workplaces and communities to get involved.
Sources: CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa
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