Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, visited the home of young cancer survivor Bandile Reagotshepa Galeboe in Bertrams, Johannesburg, on Thursday 22 January 2026, to honour his recovery and to celebrate with his family.
Bandile, aged 11 years, was diagnosed with left proximal humerus osteosarcoma; a form of bone cancer, on 24 January 2023 at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH). Under the care of the hospital’s Pediatric Oncology team, Bandile underwent extensive treatment, including multiple cycles of chemotherapy and limb-salvage surgery, and completed his treatment programme in September 2024. Subsequent biopsies and scans have confirmed that he is currently in remission.
Bandile’s parents, Ms Barbara Galeboe and Mr Lennox Smied, personally invited the MEC and the healthcare team to thank them for the compassionate care, clinical expertise, and psychosocial support they received throughout the long treatment journey.
“What gave me hope during the hardest moments was the continuous support we received from the healthcare workers at the hospital. They never gave up on Bandile. Even when fear crept in, their kindness and encouragement kept us going.” Said Ms Barbara Galeboe.
The young survivor himself inspired those around him throughout his treatment. Bandile often said: “Cancer will not kill me, I will kill cancer.”
His resilience and fighting spirit became a source of courage for his family and care team alike.
“We deeply appreciate the Galeboe family for inviting us into their home. Our healthcare workers strive tirelessly daily to save lives and bring hope, yet only a few stories of success are told compared to the many complaints we receive. Bandile’s story is just one of many examples of dedication, perseverance, and recovery. While we acknowledge there are challenges in our health system, particularly in oncology services, stories like this warm my heart and remind us why we do this work. We remain committed to strengthening cancer care services across Gauteng so more families can experience outcomes like Bandile’s.”
The MEC also commended the Pediatric Oncology team at CMJAH, together with social workers and allied health professionals, for their coordinated effort in providing holistic care addressing not only clinical needs but also emotional and psychosocial support for the child and family.
The Gauteng Department of Health continues to prioritise improved access to quality cancer treatment, early diagnosis, and support services, working in partnership with hospitals, civil society, and communities to advance oncology care.
INFO SUPPLIED.
