222 Nights of Hope - Body20 Eases the Journey for Families Facing Childhood Cancer

Two-year partnership delivers more than R307,000 in support of children receiving cancer treatment across South Africa.

JOHANNESBURG – For families grappling with the harsh realities of childhood cancer, the struggle extends far beyond the hospital ward. But this year, Body20's nationwide fundraising campaign became a catalyst for hope: R155,800 was raised for the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, providing 222 nights of safe accommodation for children in treatment and the parents who never leave their side.

The Body20 Cares initiative – a collaboration of heart and purpose – pledged half of all new member joining fees to CHOC from April to May 2026. Now in its second consecutive year, the campaign's impact is growing: last year's R151,525 contribution, combined with this year's total, brings the grand sum to R307,325.

Support for accommodation

These funds directly sustain CHOC's Accommodation Programme—an essential lifeline for families forced to travel long distances to specialist centres. With each bed night costing R700, this year's donation alone ensures 222 nights where families are spared the anxiety of where to sleep while their child battles illness.

"CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa is deeply grateful for this generous donation of R155,800," said Antonella Swanepoel, Business Development Unit Manager at CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA.

"This meaningful support will help us continue walking alongside children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or life-threatening blood disorders, and their families, during an incredibly challenging time.

"The donation will support CHOC's Accommodation Programme, where the cost of providing one bed night for a child and caregiver is R700. This contribution will fund 222 bed nights, offering families a safe and welcoming home away from home while their child receives treatment."

Childhood cancer in South Africa

Childhood cancer continues to lurk in the shadows of South Africa's health landscape. Officially, about 1,000 children receive a cancer diagnosis each year. Still, experts warn the real figure is likely much higher, hidden by late diagnoses and the silent toll in communities with limited medical resources.

The survival gap is stark: while over 80% of children in high-income countries survive cancer, the odds fall dramatically in lower-income settings, where late diagnosis and barriers to care persist.

For families, a diagnosis is not just a medical crisis but a financial one. Travel expenses, lost wages and the looming question of where to sleep can make an already dark time feel insurmountable. CHOC steps in to ease these burdens—offering accommodation, emotional support and practical help when it matters most.

Corporate support and long-term impact

Philip Hughes, Global CEO of Body20, said businesses have an opportunity to contribute meaningfully beyond their commercial activities. "Transformation has always been central to who we are. While we help people become stronger physically, mentally and emotionally, we also believe healthy communities are built through compassion and shared responsibility. Seeing our franchisees, coaches, staff and members unite behind this campaign has been incredibly encouraging."

He added that long-term partnerships often deliver the greatest impact. "The fact that this is the second consecutive year of support is important to us. Consistency allows organisations such as CHOC to continue delivering essential services to families when they need them most."