Gauteng Health Dept conducted 806 surgical procedures on Mandela Day
Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko praised healthcare workers for their commitment, saying staff across the department demonstrated their dedication to saving lives in honour of Madiba.
She also announced the official opening of a newly refurbished breast cancer centre at Helen Joseph Hospital.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said the facility will enhance early detection and diagnosis, while also expanding treatment services.
'I am excited again because people are starting to assist those people that are suffering on breast cancer. They are assisting them there a quite a number of things that when you see those people that are not well in the communities, having problems when now we know that Mandela Day will be the day we target those specific cases.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Citizen
3 hours ago
- The Citizen
67 Blankets' KnitWits bring joy to cancer patients
In celebration of Nelson Mandela Day, members of the West Rand's 67 Blankets initiative gathered at Life Flora's Oncology Centre to spread warmth and love to patients undergoing cancer treatment. The group, known as KnitWits, distributed handmade blankets and scarves, each bearing a special message that reads, 'I am not lost. If you are cold and need me, please take me. With love, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day'. The blankets and scarves were placed at the waiting area, and inside the treatment room, giving patients an opportunity to pick any colour that fascinates them. The event was part of the initiative's annual Secret Scarf Mission, which aims to bring joy and warmth to those in need. Founder Carolyn Steyn of 67 Blankets said, 'The 10th anniversary of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day is a truly remarkable milestone. I could never have imagined the incredible momentum our Secret Scarves initiative would gain over the years. 'Over the past decade, our KnitWits have lovingly crafted and distributed thousands of scarves, each one a thread of hope and warmth for someone in need. This campaign has not only warmed bodies but also hearts, making a profound difference in communities across South Africa and inspiring a movement of kindness that continues to grow,' she said. The patients appreciated the scarves and blankets, and had big smiles on their faces.
The Citizen
10 hours ago
- The Citizen
Ermelo Hospital staff bring fresh care to patients on Mandela Day
ERMELO – The staff of Ermelo Provincial Hospital's Outpatient Department (OPD) celebrated Mandela Day on July 18 by sharing kindness and nourishment. Patients who were waiting in line were pleasantly surprised to receive packets of fresh fruit, a gesture that brought smiles and comfort to their day. Mandela Day, observed annually on Madiba's birthday, encourages individuals and communities to dedicate 67 minutes to community service in honour of his 67 years of leadership and activism. The Ermelo Hospital OPD team embraced this spirit wholeheartedly, choosing a simple yet impactful way to give back to those in need. The initiative was met with gratitude from patients, many of whom expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful gesture.
The Citizen
11 hours ago
- The Citizen
Gauteng Health Department launches second phase of benefits programme for former mineworkers
Gauteng Health Department launches second phase of benefits programme for former mineworkers Former mineworkers in the Brakpan area are urged to visit Pholosong Regional Hospital to register for long-overdue compensation and undergo health screenings. This initiative forms part of the Gauteng Department of Health's second phase of the Ex-Mineworkers Social Security Benefits Programme. According to Gauteng health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba, the initiative is designed to help ex-mineworkers access medical examinations and claim benefits for occupational diseases such as silicosis and TB. 'Tambo Memorial Hospital, is one of four designated registration sites in Ekurhuleni offering free screenings, medical evaluations, and benefit registration services. 'The programme aims to identify and support mineworkers who have not yet received the social security benefits they are entitled to. Many of whom suffer from chronic lung diseases caused by years of exposure in hazardous mining environments. 'We want former mineworkers to know that this is their opportunity to get the support they deserve.' Modiba said some of them worked under incredibly tough conditions and never got the medical or financial compensation owed to them. 'This programme is for them and their families.' In addition to Pholosong Regional Hospital, other sites across the Ekurhuleni district include: • Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital in Vosloorus. • Bertha Gxowa Hospital in Germiston. • Tambo Memorial Hospital in Boksburg. The programme, run in partnership with the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases (MBOD), also provides benefits to the dependents of deceased mineworkers, provided the right documentation is submitted. Families are encouraged to come forward if they believe their loved ones qualified for occupational health claims before passing away. To register, individuals should bring the following documents: • Makhuluskop (mineworker's ID card or industry number). • Green ID book or smart ID card. • Any proof of employment in the mines. • Death certificate (for deceased mineworkers, if applicable). The first phase of the programme was implemented successfully in the West Rand district, where more than 9 000 individuals registered, and over 500 received full benefit medical examinations. Many mineworkers traveled across provinces to work in mines but returned home without any support. Residents are encouraged to spread the word among family members, neighbours, and community members who may be eligible. The MBOD call centre is available for inquiries at 080 1000 240. By registering, ex-mineworkers not only stand to receive financial support but also crucial medical care for diseases that continue to impact their lives. The department urges eligible individuals to register before the closing date on August 22.
