Remembering Sayuri Who Spread Hope and Lived with Inspiring Strength

Photo Credit: Rainbows and Smiles via Facebook

Sayuri Appalasamy faced a hard battle with cancer with a courage that few ever know. Even in her suffering, she rallied and raised funds to support and heal others. Though taken too soon, Sayuri’s legacy of selfless kindness will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (23 June 2025) – The world feels a little dimmer with the passing of Sayuri Appalasamy, a brave young soul gone far too soon. Yet, her brief but brilliant life touched and inspired so many, leaving a mark of hope that will forever shine in countless hearts.

Sayuri faced the brutal reality of cancer with a courage that few ever know. Through the highs of remission in 2024 and the devastating return of the disease in 2025, her spirit remained unbroken and her optimism a constant. Even after a challenging surgery, an attempt to save her leg that ultimately led to amputation, Sayuri met this change with grace, choosing to see it as a “small” setback and a life free from pain.

While her passing has certainly saddened all those who knew and admired her, Sayuri’s bravery shone until the very end, with the legacy of her kindness remaining forever.

One of her many acts of true compassion saw Sayuri organise a Prom with a Purpose fundraiser earlier this year in which proceeds raised went toward supporting other children and teens battling cancer.

“She raised a huge amount of money and donated it to charities, of which Rainbows and Smiles was a recipient. She could have used this money to do fun things, make memories or even look at alternative treatments, but Sayuri chose to donate so that others could benefit from her selflessness. She was an amazing young lady with the kindest heart,” reflects Rainbow and Smiles’ Debbie Riggien.

The 15-year-old even previously did three paintings to be auctioned at a Rainbow and Smiles charity golf day, when she was only asked for one.

“When we asked if she would give a short speech at the next golf day, she gave a talk from her heart.”

Sayuri was a young woman who gave wherever she could, supported others in their suffering, and held onto her light until the very end. She was the bravest of the brave. A true inspiration.

As Debbie puts it:

“She had a bold personality that could not be ignored. She was determined and knew what she wanted. She was and is loved to eternity. There is a big, gaping hole in this world that was once filled by her presence.”

Rest well, dear Sayuri.