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7,000 km journey of hope and healing

20 February 2024 · Platinum Bushvelder

7,000 km journey of hope and healing

Riding through Thabazimbi: 
a community united for children’s health

Thabazimbi – This year’s ‘Ride for a Child’ charity motorbike event, organised by Pediatric Care Africa, has once again brought communities together in a remarkable display of solidarity and support. Among the many stops across this 7,000 km journey across South Africa, Thabazimbi stood out as a location where locals rallied to show their support for underprivileged children in need of medical care.

The event kicked off on the 11th of February 2024, embarking on an adventure that is not only a test of endurance but also a lifeline for those it seeks to help. When the ride reached Thabazimbi on Tuesday, 13 February 2024, the team, led by Doctor André Hattingh, CEO and founder of Pediatric Care Africa, was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm by supporters like Medhof Apteek and other local businesses.

Dr. Hattingh shared his heartfelt sentiments about the journey through Thabazimbi: “Thabazimbi was an absolute highlight on our ride around South Africa. It’s challenging to find a community more friendly and supportive anywhere else.” 

The ‘Ride for a Child’ event symbolises more than just a charity ride; it represents a collective effort to make a real difference in the lives of children requiring surgeries and medical treatments. As the journey progresses towards its grand finale on the 24th of February, it aims to set a world record for the most motorbikes riding in staggered formation. The crescendo of this awe-inspiring ride will unfold 50km before the Caltex Mentors Plaza, stretching between Storms River and Jeffreys Bay on the N2.
For more information on how to get involved, visit www.pediatriccareafrica.org, or reach out on 076 229 5663 or info@pediatriccareafrica.org. 

Main photo: Doctor André Hattingh and Olaf, the Pediatric Care Africa mascot, making waves in Thabazimbi with his Harley Davidson.

In a heartwarming blend of compassion and adventure, Doctor Hattingh brought a ray of sunshine to Thabazimbi. Not only did he pay a special visit to the hospital to see the grandchild of Marlene Annandale, a beloved local, but he also took Marlene on an exhilarating motorcycle ride through the community. This gesture, culminating in Marlene receiving a commemorative badge, symbolised a powerful message of support and camaraderie – one kilometre and one smile at a time!