Tami’s 50th has become a mission to get South Africans behind the K9 Search and Rescue heroes who deserve a lot more support.
Durban, South Africa (30 April 2026) – If you’re a long-time follower, you might remember the story we shared in 2022, of three sisters from KZN who turned one of the worst moments of their lives into something incredible that gives back.
Lindy Swales and sisters Tami and Kirsty Scriven lost their mother, Brenda, during the Durban floods of 2016. She was washed away and never found. In the weeks that followed, as K9 Search and Rescue teams worked tirelessly through dangerous conditions to bring answers to families like theirs, the sisters realised what these heroic dogs and their handlers actually do. They were so touched, they couldn’t walk away.
So they founded Brenda’s Canine Fund NPC, also known as Brenda’s Angels, in their mom’s honour. For the past decade, they’ve been supporting local K9 Search and Rescue teams that so many South Africans don’t even know exist until the moment they desperately need them.
Now, co-founder Tami is turning 50, and to celebrate, she, along with her siblings, has launched a 50-day fundraising countdown to her birthday on 10 June!
The ask is for supporters to donate any amount divisible by 50. That could be 50 cents, R5, R50, R500, or R5000. Whatever is possible. The goal is to raise R50,000 in support of K9 Search and Rescue initiatives, and the campaign has been live since 21 April.
“Tami has never been big on traditional birthday celebrations, so she chose to use this milestone in a more meaningful way — to raise funds and, importantly, highlight the critical role K9 Search and Rescue teams play in times of crisis. This year is also especially significant, as 2026 marks 10 years since we lost our mom. Her passing is the reason we founded Brenda’s Canine Fund NPC, so this campaign is both a tribute and a continuation of her legacy.” the sisters share.
When you donate to 50 for 50, the money goes toward the specific needs of K9 teams, like life jackets, protective booties, Bravecto treatments, and bedding for kennel units in vehicles. All of the everyday essentials that keep a working dog safe, healthy, and ready to go when duty calls.
“100% of the funds raised go directly into the fund to support the safety, wellbeing, and comfort of K9s on the ground.”
Brenda’s Angels work with K9 teams that are government-supported, filling in the gaps where there is a need.
“It’s important to emphasise that these teams are supported by the state, and we are proud to work alongside the departments. However, resources are often stretched and processes can take time — our role is to step in where we can, to support and strengthen what is already in place.”
Since the campaign launched, Brenda’s Angels say the ongoing support and the community have been incredible. But they are just as focused on the conversation as they are on the donations, because one of the things they care most about is helping South Africans understand what K9 teams really do, and why they matter before a crisis strikes.
“Equally important to us has been the level of engagement on the campaign. While fundraising is vital, a key goal is to educate the public about the importance of these teams. Search and Rescue units are often overlooked until they are needed, yet their role during a crisis is critical. They help bring loved ones home and, in many cases, provide families with much-needed closure.”
Lindy, Tammy and Kirsty founded this NPC together because they never got that closure themselves.
“This campaign honours her memory by turning that loss into purpose. It keeps her legacy alive while offering hope — a reminder that even in the face of deep loss, something meaningful can grow. Losing our mom was one of the hardest things we have ever faced, but knowing that her legacy now helps others brings a sense of meaning and a measure of closure we never had.”
On 10 June, Tami turns 50. There’ll be a live broadcast announcing the final total raised. Donate any amount divisible by 50 and follow Brenda’s Canine Fund on Facebook to be part of the journey.
Sources: GTG Interview.
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