Yolandi du Plooy (18), a first-year student at the University of the Free State, found inspiration in her late grandfather’s memory raising R20 000 during her remarkable journey in the waters of the Midmar Mile, a swimming race held annually at the Midmar Dam north of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. Her remarkable feat was not just a test of physical endurance but a heartfelt tribute to her grandfather, who died of cancer in 2017.
The Bachelor of Science student’s journey into the Midmar Charity Challenge began in 2017, when she swam her first Midmar Mile. Witnessing athletes tackle the 8- and 16-mile (12.8- and 25.7-km) distances inspired her deeply. However, the real impetus came when her grandfather succumbed to cancer later that year, igniting a determination to contribute meaningfully to the fight against the disease.
“I never fully realised what these athletes were swimming for until my grandfather passed away, and that is how the seed was planted. Over the years it grew into a reality,” she says.
In 2022, Du Plooy participated in the Midmar 8 Mile Charity Challenge, and after a thrilling experience she set her sights on the 16-mile challenge. Despite facing setbacks, including hip pain and surgery, she resolutely adhered to her rehabilitation programme. The culmination of her training was the intense Super Seals Hell Week in January 2024, during which she swam a staggering 100 km in one week.
What made Du Plooy's swim even more touching was her decision to raise funds for Happy Bundles, a non-profit organisation supporting children with cancer. The inspiration behind this choice was Candice Kriel, founder of Happy Bundles, who travelled from Seattle in the USA to support the swimmers at Midmar.
Du Plooy faced numerous difficulties during the 16-mile swim. “My shoulders and arms became extremely sore and tired. Choppy water was also a challenge. It made swimming in a straight line, seeing where you were going, and breathing more difficult. My swimming costume and timing chip chafed my skin and made my ankles and neck raw.”
However, her determination and the support of the Happy Bundles community, who wore matching costumes, propelled her forward. Du Plooy says Happy Bundles’ mission of bringing joy to children fighting cancer resonated deeply with her. “I hope my fundraising efforts will not only provide tangible support but also bring moments of happiness and inspiration to these young heroes battling against the odds,” she says.
Du Plooy emphasises the importance of balancing academic commitments with her passion for swimming and charitable endeavours. For her, swimming serves as a mental reset, preparing her for the challenges of university life.
Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and compassion, demonstrating the profound impact that individuals, even at a young age, can have on their communities through acts of kindness and perseverance.