She’s battled leukaemia twice already. With a high possibility of a third relapse, 22-year-old Anastacia Marais is fighting for her life as she races to get a life-saving bone marrow transplant.
Meyerton, South Africa (17 August 2025) – At just 22, Anastacia Marais has battled acute myeloid leukaemia twice in her young life with a powerful will to live.
But the fight is not quite over yet. After being told there was a high chance she could relapse for a third time, Anastacia is now racing to fund the bone marrow transplant that can save her life.
Anastacia’s mother, her boyfriend Gerhard, and his family have supported her every step of the way. Gerhard’s father, Christoffel Van Der Merwe, who cares for her as if she were his own child, even initiated a community crowdfunding campaign to help fund her operation at a private hospital in Pretoria.
During the hardest stretches in the past, Anastacia lived with Gerhard’s family, who provided for her with rides to appointments, meals on the tough days, and laughter on the better ones.
“She’s a big part of our family, that’s why I started the campaign,” Christoffel says.
In the first 10 days of the campaign, 44 donors gave R35,750 toward a target of R800,000, an early surge of kindness that mirrors Anastacia’s determination and the impact she has on those around her.
Funds raised so far currently sit at over R37,000, and thankfully, DKMS Africa has generously offered to sponsor half of the cost. The campaign aims to raise the remaining amount so she can proceed without delay.
Anastacia is determined to live a full life with intention and purpose. Doctors agree that a bone marrow transplant is her best and only path to lasting survival.
“I already have a donor. Everything is in place—except the funding. That’s why I’m reaching out with an open heart, asking if you would consider reading my story, sharing it, or sponsoring me in any way you can,” appeals Anastacia.
Every contribution, every kind word, and every share widens the circle of care and brings her transplant closer.
To donate, visit the Anastacia Marais BackBuddy page.
Sources: BackaBuddy
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