The man whose voice once filled school halls and community centres with messages of hope now speaks through the pain of throat cancer.
Western Cape, South Africa (03 October 2025) – For over three decades, Steve Hamilton has dedicated his life to helping others break free from addiction. His powerful talks in schools, boardrooms, and communities across South Africa, Namibia, and Eswatini have inspired thousands to reclaim their lives.
He’s a recovering addict who chose to use his story not as a weight but as a tool… a way to lift others out of darkness and show them a different future.
But today, Steve faces the fight of his life. What began as a stubborn earache turned into severe throat pain. A biopsy and CT scan delivered devastating news: three tumours on his palate, tongue and throat. The diagnosis, aggressive throat cancer, has forced him to step away from the stage he loved and cancel all his speaking engagements, his only source of income.
His new daily reality is six weeks of gruelling radiation and chemotherapy. Side effects have left him fatigued, in constant pain and unable to eat or speak properly. Yet, through it all, his determination shines.
“I’m a recovering drug addict, alcoholic and I’m fighting cancer… I’m not in recovery trying to recover from cancer,” Steve shared.
Even while facing his greatest battle, his words remain filled with honesty and hope.
“You hear the stories about people with cancer but you don’t live it and when you do… it’s a nightmare. By the grace of God I don’t die from cancer but if I do, I’ll die with my family holding my hand.”
Steve’s impact is woven into countless lives.
“You turned your past around totally my friend. It gives many parents hope for their children. You have touched many lives. Miracles happen, and I pray for one every day. Your journey has made a difference to many. And your voice will carry on for many more. Salute bro,” a social media user posted.
Another memory came from a former primary school pupil.
“Hello Mr Hamilton. I remember being in about grade 3 in Norkem Park Primary School and you giving a talk at my school. You began off with lighting a cigarette on the stage (skit) as part of your intro to your talk… I am 33 years old today and I still talk about that day. It made such an impact on my young self. Thank you. You are valued and worthy.”
His influence stretches beyond talks. His book ‘I Want My Life Back‘ has inspired many, and as a founding member of Narcotics Anonymous in South Africa, his work has saved lives. He’s been recognised with awards from Lions International, Rotary International, and appeared on countless TV, radio and community platforms.
Today, the man who spent his life helping others needs help himself. His BackaBuddy campaign has raised only R6,600 of its R250,000 goal after a month. These funds will cover nutritional supplements, physiotherapy, speech therapy, stress management and basic living costs while he undergoes treatment.
Steve dreams of completing his second book, Colours of the Wind, and one day stepping back on stage to continue his life’s mission: spreading hope and resilience.
For now, his focus is simple: “to beat cancer and stay alive.”
And we can help him do just that.
Every share, every prayer and every donation brings Steve one step closer to recovery. His voice has lifted so many, now it’s time for us to lift his.
You can listen to his most recent interview with Clarence Ford on Cape Talk below:
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