Category: Updates 2026

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Update on Brave Warrior, Kian Ludick (Nephroblastoma)

Latest update on brave warrior, Kian Ludick who was diagnosed with Nephroblastoma in 2021, directly from his mommy, Luzelle.

Back in January 2025, Kian was enrolled in a specialised school designed to cater to his unique needs. Thanks to a supportive environment and specialised therapies, Kian has shown amazing progress! He is communicating much better, expressing his needs effectively, and has even started potty training

To access this specialised care, they had to adjust their budget to prioritise his well-being above all else. Luzelle and Kian also had to move to Kathu. While Kian is thriving, he does miss his father and siblings dearly. She highlights that while this move and specialised schooling are a significant investment, seeing Kian’s development makes it completely worthwhile.

Luzelle is closely managing Kian’s health. He is no longer on blood pressure medication, though it is still being monitored. Risperdal is now only administered on an as-needed basis for severe meltdowns.

Kian continues to live with nephroblastosis and requires scans twice a year to monitor the abnormal cells. Following his scan on 11 November 2025, Luzelle is thankful to report that no changes were detected. Kian remains in remission!

“We are so grateful to God for making all this possible. His blessings and guidance have given us hope and strength  throughout this journey. We’re thankful for amazing friends and family who have supported us through all this.” – Luzelle

We are standing behind you and are rooting for you, Kian!
– The AOM Team

Important Note: While it is wonderful news that Kian is in remission, please remember that remission does not mean cured. Kian requires lifelong monitoring to manage his condition, and we appreciate your continued prayers and support. xxx

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14 February: The BIG WALK for Young Warriors 2026 – Cape Town

big walk for little warriors childhood cancer awareness walk 2026 cape town

Cape Town, it’s time to lace up for The BIG WALK for Young Warriors 2026!

Childhood Cancer Awareness Walk

This Valentine’s Day, let’s show our “Young Warriors” some massive love. Whether you are walking, running, or rolling, we want to see you there! The route through Camoens Park is wheelchair-friendly, making this a day for everyone to participate.

  • Date: Saturday, 14 February 2026
  • Time: Registration 08:30 | Start 09:00
  • Route: Start at Grace Presbyterian Church, Barrow Street – Walk through Camoens Park
  • Cost: FREE (Voluntary donations gracefully accepted)
  • More Info: Whatsapp: 083 305 0424

Bring your family and friends, colleagues, and even your well-behaved pups (on a leash)!

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Tygerberg Hills Lions Club for their continued support, and leadership in organising this event.

Please bring a little extra spending money and stop by the Arms of Mercy stall to buy your childhood cancer awareness bracelet. Every cent raised goes toward medical expenses not covered by medical aid – providing hope and a better quality of life for our brave warriors. Together we CAN make a difference!

“Walking as one until the battle is won.”

International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) is observed every year on the 15th of February. It is a global campaign to raise awareness, support children with cancer, survivors, and families, and advocate for better diagnosis and equitable access to quality treatment worldwide, highlighting disparities where survival rates vary significantly by region. Learn more at internationalchildhoodcancerday.org.

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Beyond December: Keeping the Lifeline Strong in January

january giving matters

As the new year begins, many of us are taking a moment to reset and reflect. January is often a time for tightening belts and recovering from the holiday season – a trend that is deeply felt in the charitable sector.

While the surge of holiday giving tends to end in December, the reality of the work we do remains a daily, constant necessity. We wanted to share 5 powerful reason why Giving in January is so important, and truly special:

1. The “January Gap” is Real

Many charities face a significant drop in donations after December, however, the need for life-saving medical care, surgeries, and daily healthcare expenses never takes a holiday. Your gift in January helps bridge this critical gap!

2. Affirm your own Abundance

Giving, even when you feel stretched, shifts your mindset. It’s a powerful act of intention for the new year and a proven mood booster (hello, “helper’s high”)!

3. Start resolutions with Action

Resolve to be more charitable this year? Donating in January is a concrete way to kickstart that goal, setting a positive pattern for the months ahead.

4. Small amounts have HUGE Impacts

Because fewer people give in January, your contribution – whether it’s the cost of a coffee or a few extra Rand – can go further and make a more visible difference. Every bit helps!

5. Become a “Year Round Hero”

January is the perfect time to set up a small, recurring monthly donation. Even the cost of one coffee a month provides a “predictable income.” For a charity, knowing they have a steady “budget” helps them plan bigger projects for the entire year ahead.

Your kindness, especially during these lean months, is what enables us to continue our work.

Let’s make January a month of powerful impact, showing that even in challenging times, our community’s heart beats strong.

With gratitude,
The Arms of Mercy team

DONATIONS

Account Holder: Arms of Mercy NPC
Bank: Standard Bank
Account Type: Cheque Account
Account Number: 10114699702
Branch Code: 051001
Swift Code: SBZA ZA JJ
REF: Name & Cell Number

Arms of Mercy is a registered NPC (2018/016801/08) and PBO 930076145. Tax deductible receipts are available upon request, please contact us by sending an email to: admin@armsofmercy.org.za.