Writer: Zinhle Dlamini
Pictures: Supplied
Itumeleng Morole recovering in hospital
Life didn’t end when Itumeleng Morole was diagnosed with cancer — it began anew. After enduring grueling rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and an ostomy surgery, she is now reclaiming her life beyond cancer.
“I am currently in full remission. Before cancer, I was just living, but now I have a new perspective on life and a sense of purpose,” says the 36-year-old.
Before her diagnosis in 2020, Morole never imagined that her life would change so drastically.
“I had diarrhoea and constipation. I also struggled to walk, sit and use the toilet. So, I went to the hospital thinking I had piles. However, the doctors discovered that my sphincter was damaged — a sign of something much more serious,” she recalls.
That was when her real nightmare began.
“I went through several tests, but it was the long wait for the results that took a toll on me. It took almost a year to get the actual diagnosis. When the results finally came, they confirmed I had anal cancer. By then, the cancer was already at stage 3, and I needed immediate treatment.”
The treatment was far from easy.
Itumeleng Morole embracing life confidently with a colostomy bag
“I had to undergo chemotherapy, radiation and an ostomy surgery. An ostomy is a life-saving procedure. Since the cancer was at an advanced stage and my sphincter was damaged, there had to be another way for me to pass waste. The doctors diverted the waste through my abdomen, and a colostomy bag was attached to collect it,” she explains.
Morole believes that an earlier diagnosis could have reduced the need for such extensive treatment and possibly avoided the permanent ostomy.
“There’s a need for more efficient screening processes, shorter waiting times for diagnosis, and faster access to treatment. Improving these areas can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.”
Her diagnosis and treatment took place in a public hospital in South Africa, her home country. Although healthcare in public facilities is free, Morole says “free” sometimes comes at a cost.
“The concept of free healthcare can strain resources and affect the availability of medical staff. It’s important that the system is adequately funded and staffed to provide quality care to all patients. There are also hidden costs — like additional medication or medical supplies that aren’t covered,” she says.
Even so, she acknowledges that free healthcare remains an important milestone for South Africa.
Solomon Mondlane (in black t-shirt) and Friends raised funds in support of Itumeleng Morole’s treatment
“During my ordeal, there was a campaign organised by Solomon Mondlane and Friends to raise funds to help me during treatment. I had lost so much weight that my clothes didn’t fit. I was on diapers, and the hospital often ran out of colostomy bags, so I had to buy my own. Imagine if, on top of that, I had to pay hospital bills? Free healthcare ensures that everyone can access some form of medical assistance, and that’s something I truly support.”
Itumeleng Morole, Founder of Ubunye Ostomates Foundation
Determined to make a difference, Morole recently founded the Ubunye Ostomates Foundation, an organisation that seeks to close some of the healthcare gaps she experienced.
“Some of the people I was treated with in hospital passed away. It was painful and frightening to witness. Through the Foundation, I want to raise greater cancer awareness that can lead to earlier detection and better treatment outcomes. It also helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek medical help sooner. Recovery after treatment can be very lonely — the Foundation provides follow-up support and comfort for patients,” she explains.
Though she has had to make a few adjustments in her life, Morole says she now lives with purpose and gratitude.
“Cancer changed me, but it didn’t defeat me. I am living a fulfilled life — one day at a time.”