It costs nothing to be selfless, yet it’s one of the richest qualities a person can have. When we act for another’s gain, we can better the world around us. Liana Roodt, Oliver Brain, and Moerieda Joubert have committed themselves to this value. By giving their time and support to others, these everyday heroes are transforming lives.
Free surgery isn’t something many doctors offer, but it’s Liana Roodt’s specialty. Delays of up to 12 weeks for mastectomies slow the treatment of patients with breast cancer. Roodt realised that strained hospital resources prolonged the waiting time of those requiring surgery. To combat this, she now sacrifices her Saturdays and public holidays to provide patients with mastectomies at no cost. So far, she has performed the life-saving operation for over 100 people.
Engineer Oliver Brain is also harnessing his skills to bring hope to those in need. After noticing the hardships homeless people face, he set out to supply them with durable sleeping bags that shelter them from the elements. With the Street Sleeper project, Brain encourages volunteers to engage and connect with the people they provide the bags for. “When you take the time to interact with somebody, you see that they have so much to offer,” he says.
Among the most forgotten in society are the elderly. But Moerieda Joubert is making their needs her priority. A pensioner herself, she has spent the last 15 years providing five-course meals and live entertainment for seniors out of her own pocket. Through her Statice Square Senior group, Joubert ensures that they enjoy the comfort of a warm meal and the companionship of others. “We all have something to give, even if it’s just time,” she says.
Roodt, Brain, and Joubert each willingly offer their resources to benefit the people around them. Anchored by selflessness, they go above and beyond for others. The path of caring is a way forward for us all.
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