Totalsports Women’s Race entrants and volunteers share inspiring cancer survival journeys

Taking place on three consecutive Sundays in August – (Durban on August 2, Cape Town on August 9, and Johannesburg on August 16), the Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just a lifestyle event – it is a space where victories are celebrated, experiences are shared, and support is always in abundance.

With PinkDrive as the official charity, runners openly share their cancer journeys, offering hope, encouragement, and, most importantly, a powerful reminder: no one faces cancer alone.

Selina Govender from Merebank, Durban, was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer with widespread bone metastasis in August 2021, at the age of 37.

“My treatment plan consisted of a left mastectomy with axillary clearance and the removal of 12 lymph nodes, six IV chemotherapy sessions, 25 radiotherapy sessions, bone-strengthening infusions, and endocrine therapy. Almost five years later, my scans remain clear. I continue with endocrine therapy and bone infusions. Cancer taught me that we can’t always control what life throws at us, but we can control how we rise above it. Pay attention to your body. Listen to the small signs. Never skip your check-ups and, above all, never lose hope,” she shared.

She has been participating in the Totalsports Women’s Race since 2017, and she will be taking part in the 10km again this year.

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“I walk due to no longer being able to run. The movement helps with circulation and supports keeping my bones strong and the rest of my body healthy. The Totalsports Women’s Race is a powerful celebration of women that focuses on health and charity. It is a ‘must-do’ event for women in South Africa, offering a fun, well-organised, and meaningful experience that blends healthy living with a powerful message of empowerment. I’m always in awe of the atmosphere, especially the ‘sea of pink’ and camaraderie among participants. Not forgetting the amazing views along the route, which remind us just how beautiful Durban is,” she concluded.

Rayghanah Cassiem, from Athlone, Cape Town, was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2005, during Women’s Month, at the age of 46, and was given five years to live.

Over the past 21 years, her journey has included surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and long-term cancer-blocking treatment.

“Being given a second chance at life changed everything for me. Before my diagnosis, I was simply existing as a mother and wife. Afterward, I truly started living – appreciating life’s simple blessings and embracing new challenges. I took up hiking, dragon boat paddling, and road running, things I never imagined I would do. At 50, I experienced a recurrence of breast cancer in my sternum, which took me to stage four. I was told it was advanced and incurable, instead of giving up, it strengthened my resolve to live fully.”

Today, she dedicates her time to outreach programmes at cancer care homes, using my journey to inspire and give hope.

“Cancer has taught me not to take a single day for granted. I have participated in the Totalsports Women’s Race for many years. It has become a special part of my journey. Reconnecting with familiar faces and the shared sense of purpose is incredibly uplifting. Sport helps me cope with the challenges of cancer and supports my physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It reminds me that my body is still strong and capable,” she stated.

From Linden, Johannesburg, Ntokozo Dludla was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 36.

“It was an overwhelming experience – fear and confusion all came rushing at once. The unknown was the hardest part. The journey was not easy: doctor’s appointments, tests, and treatment. It felt like my life revolved around hospitals and waiting rooms. My support system became my anchor, and family, friends, and even strangers showed me kindness and love in ways I will never forget. They reminded me that I am not alone in this fight,” she said.

Cancer can feel overwhelming when you think too far ahead, she admitted.

“My advice is to focus on getting through one appointment, one treatment, and one moment at a time. Regular activity helps maintain muscle strength, improves heart health, and keeps the body functioning better, allowing treatment to work more effectively. Even light exercise can prevent weakness and loss of mobility. The Totalsports Women’s Race is about confidence, connection, and celebrating life as a woman, as well as creating awareness of your body and holistic health. What makes the event extra special is its support of PinkDrive, an organisation that provides screening, support, and education,” she shared.

Nikki Crous, head of marketing at Totalsports, reflects on the significance of these stories and the event’s broader purpose.

“The Totalsports Women’s Race is built on the strength, courage, and resilience of women like Selina, Rayghanah, and Ntokozo, whose stories continue to inspire and unite us. This event is far more than a race – it is a powerful platform for awareness, connection, and hope. Through our partnership with PinkDrive, we are reminded of the importance of early detection, ongoing education, and support, while celebrating the incredible spirit of women who continue to show up, push forward, and uplift one another in the face of adversity,” Crous said.