Facing a three-month prognosis after an acute cancer diagnosis, Ronellé Foster turned what could have been the end into a transformative journey of survival, strength, and purpose—proving that even in life’s darkest moments, hope and resilience can light the way.
Western Cape, South Africa (22 December 2024) – “If you had told me that cancer would be my greatest teacher, I would have laughed – and then asked for a refund!” These striking words from Ronellé Foster set the tone for an extraordinary journey.
What began as a dire diagnosis became an unexpected transformation, leading to her memoir Kanker Het My Lewe Gered: Van ‘n Doodsbestaan (Cancer Saved My Life: It Made Me Stronger, Braver, Bolder, and Wiser).
Ronellé’s story isn’t merely about survival; it’s about discovering clarity and purpose amid life’s harshest trials. Diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) during the pandemic, her battle wasn’t fought in isolation – it became a source of inspiration for countless others.
“You learn a lot about yourself when your hair’s falling out, and you’re stuck in a hospital gown all alone,” she shares, reflecting on her time at Netcare Kuils River Hospital’s Haemalife Bone Marrow Transplant unit.
Originally from Malmesbury and now living in Somerset West with her husband and two sons, Ronellé candidly admits that the journey was anything but smooth. For years, she had lived with low blood pressure, iron deficiencies, and unexplained bruising, but she never imagined these signs could signal something more serious. It was her friend’s insistence on a check-up that changed everything.
At 45, the stress of lockdown, homeschooling, and work blurred the lines of her life.
“Fatigue became so intense that even basic tasks felt impossible,” she recalls.
When a routine visit to the doctor revealed severe blood irregularities, she was rushed to the hospital. There, a haematologist confirmed the AML diagnosis, and her life pivoted toward an intense battle for survival.
Against staggering odds, a perfect bone marrow match was found in her sister, who lived in Australia. Transporting the precious donation amidst global lockdowns posed its challenges, but the unwavering dedication of the Haemalife team ensured it reached South Africa safely.
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“Their commitment gave me a second chance during such uncertain times,” Ronellé says.
Ronellé’s journey is a personal triumph and a gift of knowledge and hope for others. Her book, enriched by expert insights from Dr Hannes Koornhof, covers the medical, emotional, and social aspects of cancer. From managing pain to understanding remission and fertility challenges, the book is a resource for patients, families, and friends navigating similar paths.
Her husband, Alex, provides a heartfelt perspective on how the diagnosis affected their family, especially their children.
“Cancer doesn’t just happen to one person; it impacts everyone around them,” Alex reflects.
Ronellé sums up her journey with a powerful reflection: “The thought of only having three months to live was devastating, but I chose to focus on what mattered – listening to my doctors, my body, and my mind. Failing was not an option.”
Her book, now available in Afrikaans and English, continues to uplift and guide those on similar journeys. The Netcare Kuils River Hospital, where Ronellé received her treatment, remains a pillar of support for leukaemia patients of all ages in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, offering cutting-edge care and a compassionate approach.
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