He went from feeling invisible to being loved by an entire country. Today, South Africa is mourning the loss of the man affectionately known as Uncle Sidney.
South Africa (26 September 2026) – Four months ago, a man stopped while running in the rain to help a stranger in a wheelchair. Neither of them could have imagined that their chance encounter would capture the hearts of an entire country, raise more than half a million rand and become one of South Africa’s most beautiful stories of the year. We were there from the very beginning, sharing their journey and celebrating every little victory. Today, we’re devastated to report that Sidney Miller has passed away.
Chad Nathan, the South African who introduced us all to Uncle Sidney, shared the heartbreaking news yesterday.
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved uncle, Sidney Miller.
The details surrounding his passing have not yet been confirmed. For now, we kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
I am personally in complete shock and grief and am struggling to come to terms with this loss. I’ll be taking some time for myself over the next few days and ask that you please respect my privacy too.
I am currently at the Otter Trail, and I will be running the Otter in Sidney’s name and in his memory.
May his memory be a blessing. 🤍
Good bye uncle. You will be missed! Vatas locos. Blood in, blood out.
We’ve followed Chad and Sidney’s story since May, when Good Things Guy first reported on the video that introduced South Africa to their friendship. Since then, we’ve published update after update, celebrating every bit of progress and getting to know Sidney through Chad’s videos. Like so many South Africans, both Chad and Sidney had become our friends.
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SA's Incredible Volunteer Therapy Dogs Are the Gentlest Heroes!Chad, known as Ginger With a GoPro, was out running during a terrible Cape Town storm when he spotted Sidney struggling to push his wheelchair through the rain along the Sea Point promenade. Chad offered to help and spent the next four kilometres pushing Sidney towards the bus stop where he had been sleeping. During that time, Sidney told Chad about the accident that had changed his life and the years he’d spent homeless. Chad went home, shared their story online and asked South Africans to help.
Within days, donations had exceeded R300,000, eventually climbing beyond R500,000. Thousands of people contributed, while businesses, charities, kind strangers and medical professionals offered their services. Sidney received clothing, a new phone, a customised electric wheelchair and assistance with his medical care. The Angel Network, The Sweethearts Foundation and Souper Troopers also became involved, helping to manage the donations and support his recovery and plans for the future.
We continued reporting on his progress as he underwent the amputation of his second leg and started planning for a permanent home. In August, we shared another happy update when Sidney underwent his second cataract procedure, thanks to the Atlantic Eye Foundation and medical professionals who donated their time.
Throughout it all, Chad kept visiting his new friend, sharing their conversations, making him laugh and keeping South Africans updated on how he was doing.
Yesterday’s update is one that has left us all in tears.
Messages have been pouring in from people who followed their journey, many thanking Chad for everything he did for Sidney and sharing how much their friendship meant to them.
“You were the best transition/bridge for Sidney. He went to heaven having experienced a sincere love from you & everyone who supported him. Rest in peace Sidney 🌸.”
“This is devastating news. I am so heartbroken to learn of his passing Chad. You really made his last chapter the very best and for that he will always be your guardian angel. Sending you and his family so much strength and love during this very very tragic time ❤️.”
“Your initial act of kindness showed Sidney that there is so much love in the world and let him know that he was deeply cared about and not alone. You both left your mark on so many people and may it be a reminder to do good unto others. Deepest condolences to you and all who knew him – he’ll be the brightest star in the night sky.”
Our hearts go out to Sidney’s family, Chad and everyone who knew and loved him. We hope Chad takes the time he needs to grieve, knowing just how much his friendship meant to Sidney and how many people were touched by their story.
We often talk about wanting to make South Africa a better place. Chad and Sidney’s story showed us how easily that can begin. I hope we remember Uncle Sidney every time we see someone who could use a little help. I hope we remember his generosity and how much he loved sharing what he had with others. And I hope Chad knows that the friendship he shared with Sidney has encouraged people across South Africa (and the world) to be kinder.
We didn’t get the happy ending we were all hoping for. But I’m so grateful that Chad stopped running that day, that we got to know Uncle Sidney and that, for four months, we were able to share in their happiness.
Rest peacefully Uncle Sidney. You were loved by an entire country.
by 
