Some stories remind us what it means to be truly alive. After years of fighting courageously through illness and recovery, Delyse’s journey is about how the human spirit remains undefeated.
Hillcrest, South Africa (24 October 2025) – For those who know Delyse Grenfell, strength is not just a word; it’s what she embodies. At 63, she has faced more than most could imagine, yet she continues to live with courage and hope.
Her journey with cancer began back in 2009, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 46. It was a life-altering moment, but Delyse met it head-on and came through stronger than before.
Just four years later, in 2013, while on holiday in Mauritius, she suffered a brain aneurysm. She was flown back to South Africa and spent 18 days in the ICU. But Delyse defied the odds and made what can only be described as a miraculous recovery.
Then, in 2021, a sharp pain under her right breast led her back to the doctor and another devastating diagnosis. On 1 September that year, she was told she had stage 4 liver cancer. Further tests revealed the source, and it was a 23cm tumour in her colon that had already spread.
In June 2022, she underwent a gruelling nine-hour surgery to remove the colon tumour and several liver lesions. Though some lesions were left behind for future treatment, she came through the operation with her trademark determination.
Hope briefly resurfaced when she was referred to a specialist at Donald Gordon Hospital for a possible liver transplant, but it wasn’t to be. With no other surgical options, Delyse began lifelong chemotherapy.
Today, she continues to fight not just to survive, but to live. There are days of deep fatigue and pain, but there are also moments filled with laughter, love, and gratitude.
“I don’t measure my life by the battles I’ve faced, but by the love, laughter, and grace that have carried me through them. Cancer may live in my body but it will never own my story.”
Recently, Delyse’s doctors have refused to continue the Stivarga chemo treatment, the one that gives her the best quality of life. Each course costs R60,000, and she now depends on others to continue the treatment that works for her.
Every contribution through her BackaBuddy page helps keep Delyse’s light shining.
“I’ve survived breast cancer. I’ve survived a brain aneurysm. I’ve survived major surgery,” she says. “Through it all, I’ve kept moving forward one step, one breath, one moment at a time. My body may be in a battle, but my soul remains undefeated.”
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