logo
Cansa launches official WhatsApp channel for support

Cansa launches official WhatsApp channel for support

The Citizen23-06-2025
The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) has officially launched its WhatsApp Channel, marking a new chapter in how the 94-year-old organisation connects with the broader public, cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, volunteers and donors.
This modern platform offers a convenient, quick, and informative way for all to stay updated and engaged with Cansa's work.
The public can follow the Cansa channel on WhatsApp.
ALSO READ: Cansa West Rand spreads hope and kindness to cancer patients
'There's nothing old-fashioned about Cansa when it comes to communication,' said spokesperson Lucy Balona.
'With most South Africans using WhatsApp daily, this channel is an easy and familiar way for people to access vital cancer-related information, updates, and support.'
Launched internally in March to employees and volunteers, the WhatsApp Channel is now open to the public and steadily gaining traction.
It's designed as a trusted space for anyone affected by cancer to stay informed, feel supported, and get involved.
'We've created a space where everyone, from the general public, survivors and their loved ones to medical professionals and advocates, can easily access updates and information', added Balona.
ALSO READ: Cansa West Rand spreads hope and kindness to cancer patients
'The channel helps us raise awareness of our services, upcoming events, and health campaigns while also celebrating stories of hope.
'To combat the current flood of misinformation, the Cansa WhatsApp Channel shares only credible, researched content, and when channel messages are forwarded, they will carry the Cansa name, so recipients can trust that the information comes directly from us.'
The channel features:
• Expert insights with video and voice notes
• Real-time updates on Cansa events and services
• Patient support messages and donor thank-you
• Volunteer co-ordination and calls to action
• Short reports and information bursts on key topics
Why join?
Cansa provides a wide range of services, from health awareness and lowering of cancer risk information to early detection through cancer screening and stoma support to home-based care, medical equipment hire and psycho-social support.
ALSO READ: Cansa and Silverstar joins forces
The organisation also runs seven Cansa care homes and Cansa-TLC accommodation for families during treatment, along with a free tele-counselling service in nine languages and a national toll-free help desk.
'With this WhatsApp Channel, we're bringing our support, knowledge and care right into your hands – literally. We aim for all to stay informed or supported,' said Balona.
Here is the link https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAWtQv2P59ipVaysk2Q
Subscribers' privacy is respected, with phone numbers hidden and no direct replies possible.
Readers can react to posts and share them widely.
Profile information and interactions with channel content, like emoji reactions or poll votes, aren't visible to them.
They can't see your name, phone number or profile picture.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App
Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

King Charles III shares health update amid cancer fight
King Charles III shares health update amid cancer fight

The South African

time5 hours ago

  • The South African

King Charles III shares health update amid cancer fight

King Charles III has offered a rare and uplifting update on his health as he continues to battle cancer. Since publicly revealing his diagnosis in February 2024, the British monarch has kept his spirits high while juggling a busy schedule of royal duties. During a recent visit to the Jockey Club Rooms in Newmarket, King Charles spoke candidly with a royal fan, Lee Harman, according to E News. Harman shared with the PA News agency how the monarch described his condition. 'He said he was feeling a lot better now and that it was 'just one of those things,'' Harman recounted. This simple but honest statement reflects how the King is managing his illness with remarkable composure. Buckingham Palace later confirmed Charles' condition is under control, describing it as a 'managed condition.' A source told NBC News in December 2024 that his treatment cycle would continue into next year. Despite this, Charles remains committed to fulfilling his royal responsibilities alongside Queen Camilla. In April 2025, Charles shared insights from his cancer journey at a reception honouring cancer researchers at Buckingham Palace. He emphasised the human experience behind the statistics. 'Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones,' he said in a statement distributed at the event. 'Being one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity. The darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.' Interestingly, King Charles' announcement came just a month before his son, Prince William, and daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, revealed Kate's cancer diagnosis. The Princess of Wales completed chemotherapy in September 2024 and recently opened up about her ongoing recovery. Kate acknowledged the challenge of the post-treatment phase. 'You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment,' she said during a visit to Colchester Hospital in early July. 'Treatment's done, then it's like, 'I can crack on, get back to normal,' but actually, the phase afterwards is difficult.' She stressed the importance of support from loved ones. 'Someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment, I think is valuable.' At 76 years old, King Charles continues to inspire many. His ongoing treatment and busy schedule show determination. As the monarch puts it, sometimes facing cancer is 'just one of those things.' This attitude, combined with his courage and grace, encourages countless people battling illness across the Commonwealth and beyond. With his health managed and his spirit strong, King Charles remains a symbol of hope. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

Where to get free mental health care in Durban
Where to get free mental health care in Durban

The Citizen

time11 hours ago

  • The Citizen

Where to get free mental health care in Durban

Where to get free mental health care in Durban ROUGHLY 16.5% of adults in South Africa experience common mental disorders annually. Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders are particularly prevalent, with some studies indicating that one in six adults may be affected, according to The State of Mental Health in South Africa report. A recent white paper by the Wits/Medical Research Council, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit (DPHRU), reveals that 25.7% of South Africans are most likely depressed, with more than a quarter of respondents reporting moderate to severe symptoms of depression. The SA government says: 'Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and job stress are common, affecting individuals, their families and co-workers, and the broader community. In addition, they have a direct impact on workplaces through increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased costs. Very few South Africans seek treatment for their mental disorders. Mental illness can be treated at your nearest clinic, hospital or healthcare provider.' ALSO read: Mental health matters: Dealing with generalised anxiety disorder There is increasing evidence that a person can combat mental health illnesses. One can prioritise physical health, engage in enjoyable activities, steer clear of harmful substances, and seek professional help when needed. If you are looking for local facilities that provide free mental health services to people, you can consider these options. Here are the five Durban-based institutions that assist mental health victims for free: Durban and Coastal Mental Health: It is an NPO in Sherwood which provides free mental health containment, assessment and counselling. Contact details: Call: 031 207 3433/3078, email: [email protected]. South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): It is a mental health NGO dedicated to providing free basic counselling support, including a dedicated WhatsApp chat line, and also offers various helplines of different mental health needs. Contact details: Call: 0800 456 789, SMS 31393. WhatsApp: 076 882 2775. Email: [email protected]. LifeLine Durban: It is a service organisation that provides free support to people who have difficulties and also offers free mental and emotional health services. Contact details: Call: 031 303 1344. Email: [email protected]. Folweni Clinic/Mariannridge Clinic: These clinics are located in Durban south and west, and offer free mental health services for both children and adults. Contact details: Folweni Clinic Call: 031 900 0501. Mariannridge Clinic Call: 031 703 1625. Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital: It is a public hospital in Umlazi which provides free inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Contact details: Call: 031 907 8111. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here

5 Durban facilities that provide free mental health services
5 Durban facilities that provide free mental health services

The Citizen

time11 hours ago

  • The Citizen

5 Durban facilities that provide free mental health services

ROUGHLY 16.5% of adults in South Africa experience common mental disorders annually. Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders are particularly prevalent, with some studies indicating that one in six adults may be affected, according to The State of Mental Health in South Africa report. A recent white paper by the Wits/Medical Research Council, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit (DPHRU), reveals that 25.7% of South Africans are most likely depressed, with more than a quarter of respondents reporting moderate to severe symptoms of depression. The SA government says: 'Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and job stress are common, affecting individuals, their families and co-workers, and the broader community. In addition, they have a direct impact on workplaces through increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased costs. Very few South Africans seek treatment for their mental disorders. Mental illness can be treated at your nearest clinic, hospital or healthcare provider.' ALSO read: Mental health matters: Dealing with generalised anxiety disorder There is increasing evidence that a person can combat mental health illnesses. One can prioritise physical health, engage in enjoyable activities, steer clear of harmful substances, and seek professional help when needed. If you are looking for local facilities that provide free mental health services to people, you can consider these options. Here are the five Durban-based institutions that assist mental health victims for free: Durban and Coastal Mental Health: It is an NPO in Sherwood which provides free mental health containment, assessment and counselling. Contact details: Call: 031 207 3433/3078, email: [email protected]. South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): It is a mental health NGO dedicated to providing free basic counselling support, including a dedicated WhatsApp chat line, and also offers various helplines of different mental health needs. Contact details: Call: 0800 456 789, SMS 31393. WhatsApp: 076 882 2775. Email: [email protected]. LifeLine Durban: It is a service organisation that provides free support to people who have difficulties and also offers free mental and emotional health services. Contact details: Call: 031 303 1344. Email: [email protected]. Folweni Clinic/Mariannridge Clinic: These clinics are located in Durban south and west, and offer free mental health services for both children and adults. Contact details: Folweni Clinic Call: 031 900 0501. Mariannridge Clinic Call: 031 703 1625. Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital: It is a public hospital in Umlazi which provides free inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Contact details: Call: 031 907 8111. For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store