'Good Morning Angels' secure R2.7 million for burn care technology
The fundraising took place on Youth Day, 16 June, during the popular Breakfast with Martin Bester show.
The goal was to replace a specialised laser machine at the Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital in Johannesburg.
The machine is essential for treating burn scars in children, but broke down in late 2024 and cannot be repaired.
These advanced laser machines cost around R1.4 million each. The machines are vital for restoring mobility and reducing scarring caused by burns, according to Media Update .
Trained plastic surgeons operate the machines, which play a crucial role in the physical and psychological healing of young burn survivors.
The Avela Foundation will use the funds to help up to 40 children every month on their recovery journey.
A brave young girl named Avela inspired the foundation, which focuses on offering hope and healing to child burn survivors across South Africa.
Listeners of Jacaranda FM responded generously, reaching the target for one machine just before 8 a.m. Donations continued to pour in after that.
When the supplier offered a discount on a second machine for R1.3 million, the station set a new challenge.
By the end of the show, R2.52 million had been raised, and the final total reached R2.7 million the next morning.
This means two laser machines will be purchased, doubling the impact of the fundraiser for burn victims.
Martin Bester, host of the Breakfast show, expressed his gratitude. 'It's hard to describe the emotion in the studio that morning. Knowing that our listeners didn't just show up, they showed up big.
This was about giving children their futures back.
We started Youth Day, celebrating the resilience of our young people, and ended it knowing hundreds more will get the chance to heal.
That's what radio can do – it connects people and inspires miracles'.
The campaign also received significant support from LottoStar, whose donation of R697,000 helped reach the first target early and motivated others to continue giving.
The Machi Filotimo Cancer Project also contributed, supporting the campaign for burn victims and bringing joy to young patients at the Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital through a toy distribution.
This initiative showcases the power of collective generosity and the commitment of South Africans to uplift the next generation.
It stands as a fitting tribute to the courage of child burn survivors and the transformative role of community-driven efforts like Jacaranda FM's Good Morning Angels.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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