Rare Diseases South Africa is calling on volunteers to be the sunshine in someone else’s storm.
South Africa (18 August 2025) – For families living with rare diseases, life is often an upward battle. Exhaustion and overwhelm are a part of everyday life. But there’s a way for us to help, and it’s simpler (and more important) than you might think.
Living with a rare disease can be a marathon of hospital visits, financial strain, and endless worrying. Sometimes, the help needed isn’t medical or financial at all.
“Someone to pick up bread and milk, check in on the little siblings whilst mom deals with the sick child, take the dog for his vaccinations. Sometimes it’s really just the daily tasks that just seem too much to handle,” writes Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA).
The non-profit is on a desperate lookout for everyday heroes to join their volunteer team. They’re asking for people who can give up a little time towards providing practical, loving support for patients and their families.
Their origin story strikes a chord. The RDSA started from a place of personal need when founder Kelly du Plessis realised how tough it was to get support and recognition for her son’s rare condition.
Today, the organisation advocates for better awareness, healthcare, and support for those living with different kinds of rare diseases and congenital disorders across the country. They’ve fought battles alongside those who aren’t able to face it all alone, and they’ve changed lives.
Their work has made a real difference, touching the lives of more than 1800 rare disease patients, and working with government and healthcare partners to create meaningful change.
This is not about big gestures. A little care can go a long way. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there to pick up groceries, check in, or lend a hand is everything. Volunteers become a lifeline for families who are tired, stretched thin, and simply need to know they’re not alone.
If you’re looking for a way to give back, even in a small way, this might be it. All you need to do is show up with care.
Contact Judy at events@rarediseases.co.za and say you’re ready to #Care4Rare. You would be making a massive difference.
Sources: Linked above.
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