Bayview cancer survivor named one of South Africa’s Global Hero of Hope

A Bayview cancer survivor, Vivienne van der Schuur, has been elected as one of South Africa’s representatives for the Global Heroes of Hope Class of 2026.

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is proud to celebrate Ms van der Schuur, who has faced cancer with courage, determination, and a deep commitment to helping others.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Her journey began under incredibly difficult circumstances, alone in the hospital and facing surgery.

“I was called on my birthday, April 3, to come in for theatre time. That is where my journey began, alone and scared in the hospital. I was with six other patients in the ward at the time, and this is where my passion for the cause started,” she said.

Before her diagnosis, Ms van der Schuur had been a carer for her mother, who passed away from vulva cancer. Drawing on that experience, she chose to volunteer with CANSA after her own diagnosis.

“CANSA empowered me to help my family and others diagnosed after me with information and patient care support services,” she said.

For the past three years, Ms van der Schuur has served as the Survivor Chair for CANSA Relay For Life in Mitchell's Plain.

“Being involved in Relay allows me to show others that cancer is not a death sentence. There is hope, there is help, and there is so much to celebrate. I fight back against this disease by pledging and educating others,” she said.

Ms van der Schuur said her selection as a Global Hero of Hope was a complete surprise. “I didn’t even know I was nominated; I only found out afterwards. When I got the call, I was really shocked to think that people see the work I do in our community to assist cancer patients,” she said.

Ms van der Schuur is one of four South African Heroes of Hope selected for 2026, alongside Izak Bellingan, Lavona Spiers, and Elza-Marie van Lille. She is the only representative from the Western Cape, highlighting her dedication and impact within her local community. Each Hero of Hope represents resilience, courage, and the importance of support during difficult times.

Ms van der Schuur also participated in the annual CANSA Relay For Life event, held on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, at Westridge High School.

The event brought families, survivors, and supporters together for an overnight celebration of life, remembrance, and hope. The event also raises cancer awareness, honours survivors, remembers loved ones lost to the disease, and encourages communities to unite against an illness that continues to affect thousands of South African families.

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