After a life-altering accident at the Soweto Marathon, a BackaBuddy campaign has been set up to help Dezi du Plessis navigate the road to recovery.
South Africa (03 November 2025)- What began as a day of passion and perseverance at the Soweto Marathon has turned into an unimaginable ordeal for beloved runner and mother, Dezi du Plessis. A BackaBuddy campaign has now been launched to help her family navigate the emotional shock that followed an accident on 29 November 2025.
After being struck by a taxi along the marathon route, Dezi was taken to the hospital, where she is currently receiving ongoing medical care. While the incident has brought immense uncertainty, her family, friends, and wider running community are choosing to focus on hope and on supporting her through the recovery ahead.
Because Dezi does not have medical aid, the costs of her hospital stay and the rehabilitation ahead have become a significant challenge for her loved ones. They are doing everything they can to keep life steady for her two young children while supporting her through this difficult period. To help ease the financial pressure, a BackaBuddy page has been created so that friends, family, neighbours, and anyone moved by her story can lend a hand.
The funds raised will be used to cover Dezi’s medical bills, therapy and recovery costs, and essential support for her children while she heals. The contributions bring the family one step closer to managing the road ahead with less worry and more focus on Dezi’s well-being.
More than anything, this campaign is about giving Dezi and her family the breathing room they need while she focuses on healing.
If you are able to donate or share the campaign, your support will make a meaningful difference. The family deeply appreciates every message and act of kindness as they stand by Dezi on her path back to strength.
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