Despite the occasional drizzle, the Durban beachfront promenade was alive with colour, laughter, and creativity on Sunday, 12 October, as more than 250 walkers joined the #HatsOn4CPC Fun Walk to raise awareness and funds for children’s palliative care in KwaZulu-Natal and across South Africa.
Organised by Palliative Care for Children South Africa (PatchSA) and Umduduzi Hospice Care for Children, the event formed part of the global #HatsOn4CPC campaign, which celebrates and supports palliative care services for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
Participants arrived wearing an array of imaginative hats — from glittering top hats to handmade creations that sparked smiles all along the route. Prizes for the best hats were generously sponsored by Forest Fairies, Anew Hotels & Resorts, Palmers, The Estuary Hotel & Spa, Hollywood Bets, Jenham, Puveshni Govender, Ashleigh Naiker, and Mark Reeves, with the delighted winners proudly showing off their creations.
The day was filled with fun, community spirit, and generosity, thanks to the incredible support of sponsors including Hirt & Carter, Mace Safety Solutions, Lactalis, First Responder KZN, HTI Insurance Brokers, Albie van Loggerenberg Photography, Durban Lions, Capture It Photography, Daddy Cool Air Conditioning, and Kate and Emma Whalley-Hands.
Local favourite Zaakia Ahmed Siddique from Lotus FM brought her trademark warmth and energy as the MC, keeping spirits high throughout the morning. The crowd also enjoyed surprise appearances from Spiderman (Mark Reeves) and a South African cricketer, Keshav Maharaj, who joined in to show their support for this important cause.
At the end of the walk, Dr Samantha Govender spoke about the value of children’s palliative care and those present were very touched to hear from Michelle Norman, a bereaved mother, who described how the wonderful team from Umduduzi had supported her through the loss of two of her children to a rare disease.
“We were thrilled by the turnout and the enthusiasm of everyone who joined us,” said Dr Samantha Govender from PatchSA. “Even the rain couldn’t dampen the joy and purpose of the day. Every step taken helps us shine a light on the children and families who need palliative care services in our province and beyond.”
The Durban #HatsOn4CPC Fun Walk served as a joyful reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together — a vibrant show of love, care, and solidarity for children who need it most.