South Africans are uniting in an outpouring of love for 5-year-old Jules, who was diagnosed with a rare spinal tumour.
South Africa (16 December 2024) – When it comes to supporting one another, South Africans never hesitate to rise to the occasion. Time and again, we’ve witnessed how communities come together to bring hope and healing in the face of immense challenges.
And right now, South Africans are rallying together to help Jules Randall, a courageous 5-year-old whose journey has inspired countless people to lend their support.
It all began in September 2024 when Jules started experiencing excruciating back pain. Her parents, Dani and Ross, sought answers, but nothing could have prepared them for the life-changing diagnosis that followed. On October 3rd, an MRI revealed a rare and large tumour at the top of her spine.
In just a moment, their world was turned upside down.
Jules underwent a 6.5-hour surgery on October 15th, with doctors warning the family that she might face life as a quadriplegic. Against all odds, Jules woke up able to move her limbs—a moment of indescribable relief and gratitude that brought her family and medical team to tears.
Her recovery has been nothing short of extraordinary. With intense physiotherapy and unwavering determination, Jules has relearned to walk, returned to school, and even performed in her end-of-year concert. She has tackled each challenge with immense courage and a radiant spirit that inspires everyone around her. Throughout this journey, her older brother Matthew has been her greatest supporter, their bond growing even stronger through these trying times.
Despite Jules’ incredible progress, a portion of the tumour remains in a delicate position on her spine, requiring advanced proton radiation therapy—an option not available locally in South Africa. The treatment, which must be done abroad, comes with a steep cost of R1.5 million, excluding travel and living expenses.
To make this life-saving treatment possible, Jules’ family has turned to the community for help, launching a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. The response has been nothing short of incredible. In just 8 days, over R580,000 has been raised, bringing them closer to their goal of R2 million.
“While we may not be able to pay this forward financially, I am committed to using my background as a mental health professional to document our journey. I want to provide practical support for families navigating similar challenges, ensuring that no one feels alone in this terrifying process. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for walking this journey with us.”
The love and kindness shown to Jules and her family is a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. Every prayer, thought, and donation has brought them closer to ensuring Jules gets the treatment she needs for a bright and healthy future.
Dani’s message to the community is clear, “Your love and kindness remind us daily that we are not alone. Please take a moment to hold your loved ones close and cherish the blessings of health, family, and friendship.”
Jules’ journey isn’t just a story of struggle—it’s one of hope, resilience, and the incredible impact of community. Thank you for being part of her story.
*Update: The Backabuddy campaign has increased to almost R1 million raised since the article was published.
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