With a heart overflowing with compassion, Magdaleen Esterhuyse is more than just a volunteer for Project Flamingo; she’s a source of unwavering support for breast cancer patients.
Cape Town, South Africa (20 February 2025) – Project Flamingo is dedicated to raising funds and awareness to achieve timeous surgery for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in South Africa’s public health sector.
Part of their incredible work involves supporting patients before and after their surgery – something that comes naturally to patient support volunteer Magdaleen Esterhuyse, based at Tygerberg Hospital, where she also works as a Senior Admin Clerk in the Department of Surgery.
Magdaleen began her volunteer work with Project Flamingo in September of last year and has already touched so many lives through her compassion, kindness, and positive outlook.
While working closely with patients, she says that she’s not only inspired by their strength but has also picked up lessons on resilience, kindness, and the importance of human connection.
“The resilience and determination of the Flamingo patients. Despite facing huge challenges, they inspire me with their courage and teach me valuable lessons about strength, hope, and the human spirit,” Magdaleen shares.
Part of what makes her such a vital part of the Flamingo family is a simple yet profound policy she lives by: ‘speaking life and not death.’
“To me, this means choosing to speak positively and upliftingly, rather than negatively or critically. I believe that the words we speak have the power to shape our reality, inspire others, and create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion.
“By speaking life, I aim to encourage, motivate, and uplift those around me. I strive to focus on the good, and I’ve seen the impact it can have on individuals.”
Patients who have been fortunate to find comfort in her presence know they have someone rooting for them before surgery and a dear friend right after the start of their healing journey.
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“I want the patients to know that they are not alone in their healing journey. By supporting and encouraging one another, they can create a powerful and positive community that accelerates healing, gives hope, and inspires resilience,” says Magdaleen.
A volunteer overflowing with kindness and support for those courageously facing breast cancer, Magdaleen is a true compassion champion in our books!
Sources: Project Flamingo
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