06-07-2025
Local church celebrates dads, raises brain tumour awareness
This year, the convergence of Father's Day and Trinity Sunday saw a meaningful celebration taking place at the Mondlo Methodist Church. The congregation paid tribute to 'earthly fathers' (still alive) for their love and guidance; while also honouring 'heavenly fathers' (passed on) who are with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in Heaven.
The service opened with a short sermon by local preacher Snakho Mbatha, who read from Psalm 8:4: 'What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?' His message reflected on the value of fatherhood, both spiritual and earthly.
As part of the day's commemorations, the congregation also observed World Brain Tumour Awareness Day. Dr Simphiwe Khumalo, a specialist in neurology and cardiology, delivered an informative presentation to raise awareness and promote education about brain tumours.
Dr Khumalo emphasised the critical role the brain plays in controlling essential functions such as speech, sight, hearing, memory and mobility. He explained that a brain tumour is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells within brain tissue. Tumours are classified into two categories:
• Primary tumours, which originate in the brain; and
• Secondary tumours, which occur when cancer cells spread from other parts of the body.
He highlighted that brain tumours can be cancerous or non-cancerous, and that early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve a patient's quality of life. Symptoms may include persistent headaches (especially in the morning or at night), seizures, difficulty speaking or thinking clearly, loss of balance, numbness or tingling on one side of the body, hearing loss, blurred vision, or abnormal eye movement.
Dr Khumalo noted that while the exact cause of most brain tumours remains unknown, fewer than 5% are inherited. In some cases, there may be a link to family history or environmental factors such as radiation exposure.
Treatment options depend on the tumour's type, size and location, with surgery being the primary form of treatment. He also encouraged preventative measures to reduce risk, including limiting radiation exposure, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, and managing stress effectively.
Following the presentation, all fathers in attendance were treated to thoughtful gifts, and lunch was served to everyone present.
ALSO READ: Happy Father's Day
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