Xolani Gwala has been fighting a heroic battle! A year ago he was diagnosed with cancer and took the year off work to fight it, as of yesterday, he is back in action.
Diagnosed with advanced Colon Cancer a year ago, Xolani Gwala decided to take time off to focus fully on his health and spend time with his family. Yesterday he made a very welcomed return to radio.
He is officially in remission and to mark his return to radio, he invited his Oncologist Dr Omondi Ogude, to talk about the journey.
Xolani had to have multiple surgeries with the biggest challenge being a liver resection performed by Milpark Hospital surgeon Thomas Marumo. Dr Ogude said that he was surprised by the extent of cancer, especially considering Xolani’s age. According to the guys, there was more cancer than the available liver.
Sharing the story, they discussed the importance of getting screened, especially if your family has a history of cancer. Xolani isn’t out of the woods yet, he will continue chemo to fight any recurrences.
“At this stage, we are going to put you on maintenance chemotherapy just to try and keep control over the disease and we will continue to monitor you over the next couple of months and that will inform us about what is going to happen in the future and we are cautiously optimistic about you.” — Dr Omondi Ogude, Oncologist
Xolani is an inspiration for many and speaking about his journey has inspired many people. Many listeners called in and shared their own cancer stories.
I’m returning to the airwaves today after a year battling cancer. Join me between 3 and 6PM. Standing in for @JoanneGJoseph. Thank you for walking this journey with me.
— Xolani Gwala (@gwalax) August 2, 2018
People shared their joy of Xolani’s return to radio.
Omw #XolaniGwala I nearly crashed my car when I heard your voice and then you said that you've had a relationship with cancer for the past year, and I choked up. SOOOOOOO good to have you back on the air. May you keep strong. 💕
— Giuliana Bland (@GiulesB65) August 2, 2018
Xolani can we be given a moment to cry on radio.Just to call and weep. We thank God for you.
— Mindurtaxbracket🏃🏽 (@nomondeb73) August 2, 2018
What an awesome surprise driving back home and hearing your laughter! Welcome back and continued God speed to you.
— Nthabiseng Moloi-Nkumane (@nthabsmoloi) August 2, 2018
Welcome back Mphephethwa! As a survivor myself and listening to your show, I am reminded of how lucky I am to be alive today and as I go to bed tonight, I will be counting ALL my blessings, in remembrance of my father who fought it to death #CancerCanBeBeaten
— Tebogo Gumede (@tebza0808) August 2, 2018