Kyle Wright's inspiring victory over cancer: a celebration of kindness

IOL News

07-05-2025

When 33-year-old Kyle Wright entered the radiotherapy unit of the hospital for his final treatment session, he was met with an unexpected celebration—one that would match the warmth of his spirit. Born with cerebral palsy, Kyle had recently completed a month-long radiation therapy for testicular cancer, a journey he faced with resilience and positivity.
Kyle's affinity for Netcare 911 began when he was just 16 years old. A medical emergency had necessitated an ambulance ride from Howick to Netcare St Anne's Hospital. Despite the pain and distress, he specifically requested the ambulance crew to sound the siren, and from that moment on, his admiration for the EMTs transformed into a lifelong bond.
'He has been Netcare 911's number one supporter since then,' Kyle's mother, Anthea Wright, recounts fondly.
Throughout his treatments, Kyle's cheerful demeanor brightened the days of both patients and staff alike. Dristi Bramdeo, a radiotherapist, noted, 'Every time Kyle set foot in the unit, his kindness and positivity lit up the waiting room.'
The small gestures he made, like bringing stunning roses with handwritten notes, created an atmosphere of love and hope in a place often filled with anxiety.
Reshma Naidoo, the radiotherapy oncology administrator at the hospital, shared that Kyle's enthusiasm for Netcare 911 was palpable. 'He once gave me a rose along with a Netcare 911 awareness leaflet, urging me to reach out to our emergency medical service heroes should I ever need help,' she said, reflecting on the young man's caring nature.
To honour Kyle's unyielding spirit, embrace his kindness, and celebrate the end of his treatment, Naidoo devised a surprise farewell party, complete with colourful decorations, snacks, and a bell-ringing ceremony, a tradition for all patients completing their treatment. However, they wanted to take it a step further and reached out to Netcare 911's regional operations manager, Shaun Paul, for assistance. What transpired was an extraordinary tribute that exceeded all expectations.
Anthea detailed how Kyle's fascination with Netcare 911 has not waned over the years. At 20, he longed for a uniform, which was graciously gifted as an honorary suit thanks to an appeal made by his mother.
'He has kept it pristine in his cupboard, and to this day, it stands as one of his most prized possessions,' she said. From birthday surprises to the consistent support from the medical team, Kyle's connection with Netcare runs deep.
'During his treatment, he was so cheerful and engaging that we couldn't help but look forward to seeing him. He brought roses to lift spirits—he truly is a treasure,' Paul stated, reflecting on the day's events. On 17 April, Netcare Parklands Hospital transformed its radiotherapy department into a festive arena that celebrated Kyle's victory over cancer.
The triumphant send-off was marked by a thrilling parade of ambulances and response vehicles, with Kyle in a Netcare 911 flight suit, radiant with joy as he sat in the front passenger seat—all sirens blaring.
'The smile on his face was priceless, showing us the profound joy we could bring to our beloved supporter,' Paul recalled.
As the day came to a close, Anthea expressed her family's overwhelming gratitude, saying, 'Your care is phenomenal. We are immensely thankful to everyone, especially the Hopelands Cancer Centre, the Radiotherapy Department, and the entire Netcare 911 team for showering Kyle with kindness and support.'