A six-year-old East London boy who has neuroblastoma – an aggressive type of cancer – will on Friday fulfil his dream of flying when he jets off to Cape Town.
While other kids dream of holiday getaways in the big city, Khanide Gqokoda’s wish was to climb aboard a plane to visit his father whom he hasn’t seen in three years.
Khanide, who lives with his grandmother Thabile Gqokoda in Ngcobo, was diagnosed in July and, shortly thereafter met with Reach For A Dream Foundation, who asked him what dream he would like to have fulfilled. To which he answered “flying”.
“He’s been excited since he found out that he’ll be flying. His morale is so high and I don’t know how he’ll react when we get to the actual airport,” his grandmother said.
Gqokoda said when the boy’s cancer was diagnosed it was already at an advanced stage.
“I am happy that he has lived to see his dream coming true. He is addicted to aeroplanes and is always playing with toy aeroplanes around the house. Seeing his dad will be the bonus to [an] already exciting experience.”
Reach for A Dream will have their annual chocolate breakfast fundraiser on Saturday at 2 Swans Bed and Breakfast, Wedding Venue and Restaurant in East London. The yearly fanfare is sponsored by local jeweller, Dennis Collins.
Reach For A Dream East London branch manager Lwanele Mpeta said the organisation was celebrating its 30th year of fulfilling children’s dreams.
“We strive to fulfil15 dreams a month and they always differ. Some want a new bicycle, while others want to meet a superstar for the first time.”
Collins said he was touched 10 years ago by the possibility of helping dreams come to life, and thus started the fundraiser breakfast which is in its ninth year now.
“The fundraiser gets bigger each year as more people catch on. This year’s occasion will be a great morning with East London’s biggest inspiration in the room,”
Collins was referring to East London’s explorer and conservationist Pete van Kets who would be doing guest speaking duties.
Tickets for the fundraiser are on sale at Dennis Collins Jeweller’s at R280 each...