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CARE DAYS LOOKS AFTER MORE PATIENTS IN 5th YEAR THAN IN LAST 4 YEARS TOTAL!
Our last year has been our most successful since Care Days started as we have looked after a total of 1246 patients in 5 years, 600 in the first 4 years.
According to A1, this makes us one of the fastest growing small cancer charities in the world percentage wise.
The good news is that with what we already have planned for the next 12 months, we believe that we will be looking after another 500 to 600 patients in the next year.
All this is due to our wonderful sponsors of Care Days in Paphos, the support from the Paphos Post, Viva fm ,Cy Living and Prof. Astras Oncology, the Winkles, and our many individual sponsors plus the dedication of our volunteers at CANSA/ Care Days S.Africa and our 3 unpaid Directors.
Our Dream has developed into something much bigger than we expected particularly with our development overseas where we primarily help patients from poorer areas.
With this growth, we need to raise more funds each year to help patients with cancer, so the Directors are looking at ways of increasing our revenue during the next 2 years.
Our concept of free of charge Care Days has worked well in Paphos thanks to the generosity of our partners who offer them, and our Dreams programme has exceeded expectations.
Cyprus Care Days granted:415
S.Africa CANSA/Care Days granted :699
Cyprus Dreams granted:96
S.Africa Dreams granted 36
Total patients looked after to end June 2026 =1246.
New Zealand Sweet Louise Breast cancer charity Dreams offered 10.
August is always quiet but we have offered a further 47 patients Care Days or Dreams in July with 17 going to the lovely Droushia Heights Hotel in September .
On top of this are the amazing results from our Sweetlove Nurse in Cape Town:
By the end of June, after just 3 months in operation for 1 day a week, our nurse has given 150 talks to males and females about how to identify cancers, has screened 57 potential patients and referred 23 to hospital for diagnosis.
In August we were very pleased to grant a Dream to a friend and cancer patient of ours on Cyprus whose best friend was dying of cancer as was his brother in law. We were able to act very quickly to get him on a plane to the UK and whilst it was sadly too late for his brother in law he made it in time to say good bye to his friend.
To be in this wonderful position of changing lives for people is indeed a blessing for the three of us.
Care Days has been very fortunate to receive more sponsorship from the Winkles, a large Cypriot company and of course the great amount raised by the wife of one of our patients at the lovely Cork and Bottle in Anarita!
Also, coming up, the Paphos Running Club has very kindly offered to help sponsor us together with CPSG at two events. It is so incredibly kind and thoughtful of them to help these two great charities who do so much to help cancer patients.
5k walk/run organised by Paphos Running Club October 17th 16.00 from Paphos Harbour, registration fee Eu10.
Coffee Morning November 5th at Coral Star Peyia, 10.00 with music and raffle, entry fee Eu 10.
Details will be on our website when we receive the posters from the Paphos Running Club. A very big thank you for including us.
Also, on Wednesday 21st October, the Paphos Classic Vehicle Club are very kindly organising another sunset rally for Care Days patients and partners. This is a really great experience so please put your name down on our Care Days booking page on www.caredayscyprus.com
The smiles on everyone’s faces say it all, so if you have been before you are welcome to join us again for a great experience, or come for the first time.
Next year we are planning our 1000km 5k fun walk later on Sunday April 11th at 10.00. This is our major money making event so please put the date down as we will be launching details in December. We hope that teams from S.Africa will again join us at the same time, same day.
FOCUS ON SOUTH AFRICA
Below are details of what Jenny’s stepson is doing to help raise more money for our Care Days Sweetlove nurse .
Thanks to Steve’s efforts with his 3 peaks challenge this year and specific donations towards our nurse we have raised enough to cover her costs until late into 2028. Steve is planning an even bigger challenge next year and we are so very grateful to him for all his support, bearing in mind he is just getting over cancer himself!
In August the Care Days Sweetlove cancer nurse has screened a further 33 and referred 3 of them for investigation. 2 patients have now been diagnosed with cancer, one Stage 3, one stage 1, so their early diagnosis by our Care Days Sweetlove nurse could well have saved their lives.
Total screened in 5 months 97.
Total referred 26 of which 2 have now been diagnosed with cancer, plus a total of 257!!! attended educational talks on cancer awareness.
Jenny’s idea of paying for this nurse has already given amazing results and reassurance to those who do not have cancer.
We are very sad to report the death of another of our patients, Kathleen, who attended our Retreat last year. Her words show how much the CANSA /Care Days cooperation means to people even when they are terminal.
“This retreat was my saving grace. I don’t have enough words to say thank you CAREDAYS/CANSA,from the bottom of my heart. Aunty Abeda you are a lifesaver. I thank God for you.I had an awesome weekend so much love and humanity it still feels wow. I am truly very grateful God used you as a vessel in my life when I was at my lowest, when my sails were torn you were there to help mend me. I know that youbare a blessing to so many, so this is me asking you and Care Days to keep doing what you are doing. I had an awesome weekend...my first massage (I am 60)pampering, laughs, good food, art therapy, every minute of this weekend was memorable . God bless u so much 🙏”From Kathleen.
“Kathleen’s family thanked CANSA / CARE DAYS for being the catalyst in the life of their mother. You created an opportunity for her to share laughter,joy,inspiration,hope and not to give up on life. They are very appreciative of CAREDAYS and its staff and convey a sincere appreciation of gratitude to you.”Abeda, CANSA/ Care Days coordinator.
This month we are hosting another Retreat for adult cancer patients after our very successful one in June for children with cancer or bereaved through cancer.
We were so fortunate to form such a strong bond with CANSA when we first went there less than 2 ½ years ago and the effect we are having on patients’ lives is quite remarkable thanks to Abeda, our coordinator and all our wonderful volunteers out there, nearly all of whom are cancer patients and our Sweetlove Nurses.
We can do no better than ask the CEO of the 95 year old CANSA , the largest cancer Charity on the African Continent to sum up her feelings about CANSA/Care Days.
“Most importantly, please know how grateful we are for your generosity, vision, and unwavering support with Care Days. The impact of your involvement extends far beyond financial contributions and continues to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve.”
International Care Days 4U Ltd.
Reg # HE466660
Care Days ......Live the Dream
CARE DAYS PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
This quote from one of our patients to whom we gave hope, says it all and explains why it is so important for Care Days to continue long into the future:
“Yes, I can’t believe how well M is doing either. To see him dancing Monday blew my mind. He didn’t even dance before he was sick. That is the power of Care Days. You learn that there’s a whole life out there to live, you just have to strive to move forward and grab it with both hands. Happiness is just as important to healing as is medication!”
Mrs. E
Jenny will continue as a Director concentrating on bereavement and South Africa. Charlotte will continue as Administrator and Treasurer, Andrew will continue as Chairman, concentrating on the International side of the charity with particular emphasis on South Africa and will still visit patients on the Astras Oncology Ward in Paphos.
When Andrew dies, his son will take over as Chairman to ensure continuity. He is currently a non executive Director who takes a keen interest in ensuring the future of Care Days .
We are so very lucky to have the support from our wonderful Paphos sponsors who offer Care Days free of charge and from various companies who sponsor us and individuals who support us. Without the backing of the Paphos Post, Viva fm and Cy Living Care Days would not have experienced the great growth by doubling in year 5 the total number of patients looked after in years 1 to 4!
July has been busy with many Dreams at Droushia Heights Hotel, and other Care Days in Cyprus, and our masseuse has given many more patients hands and feet massages but it will all calm down in August as always.
We hope to have another PCVC classic car sunset run in October which Steve will be organising with help from Simon at PCVC and Kevin. This always brings smiles to our patients’ faces.
Sadly we have lost two more patients and Care Days will be there for the relatives if requested.
The highlight of July was the musical evening at the Cork and Bottle in Anarita. This was organised totally by the wife and family and friends of one of our patients and it was such a kind gesture which raised an amazing Eu 750. To see a man dancing, who just 5 months ago was in a wheelchair was so very moving for all of us and shows what hope can do when offered from the heart. Thanks to the landlords Adam and Marina, and the fabulous singers Una and Sophia and to Eleri who organised it all. This was a beautiful gesture from grateful patients.
Focus on S.Africa
The highlight in S. Africa was the Retreat for children who have cancer or whose parents have recently died of cancer . This was totally the idea of our fabulous coordinator Abeda and we wish you could share the videos of joy and laughter that brought tears to our eyes, as did the many letters we received. To be a small part of this wonderful 95 year old cancer charity and to be able to help so many people first hand or from a distance as well as helping so many cancer patients in Cyprus is an absolute blessing for us.
We can do no better than quote you some excerpts as they show all of us the benefits of hope that cooperation with Care Days brings :
“You gave us days that weren’t about hospitals, appointments, or “being strong.” You gave us days that were just about us— laughing, resting, and remembering that we are not alone.”
“What touched me most was meeting people who are going through similar things that I am. To look into someone’s eyes and not have to explain — they just know. To hear stories that sound like mine, and to realise I’m not walking this road by myself. There’s comfort in that. There’s courage in that. You gave us the gift of finding each other.
Caredays CANSA, you did more than coordinate a retreat. You gave rest for our bodies, peace for our minds, and hope for our hearts. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
For the planning. For the care. For the beach. For the table. For each other.
With so much gratitude, Tristan ” whose Mum had cancer and died giving birth to 2 stillborn twins.
"GOD BLESS YOU BOTH FOR THE LOVE AND COMPASSION YOU HAVE SHOWN FOR OUR COMMUNITIES in distant Africa. EVERYONE FEELS THAT ENDURING LOVE of yours although you are MILES AWAY.. IT SHOWERS and nurtures their spirit..it encourages them TO LOVE AND REACH FOR HIGHER GROUNDS ameen. Abeda"
“Caredays CANSA, you did more than coordinate a retreat. You gave rest for our bodies, peace for our minds, and hope for our hearts. “
The Care Days Sweetlove nurse
In July our Sweetlove nurse gave educational talks to a further 50 people making the 4 month total 200.
A further 7 were screened and fortunately none of them was referred for possible cancers. 4 month total screened 74, of whom 23 have been referred.
International Care Days 4U Ltd Reg #466660
Care Days .......Live the Dream
In Cyprus, people with specific life-threatening cancers, like laryngeal cancer, tumors of the central nervous system, or those on permanent tracheostomies, are legally classified as vulnerable consumers. They are entitled to special reduced electricity rates through the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC), known as Tariff 08.
- Download the Tariff 08 Application Form from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) website.
- Fill out the application and gather the required medical certificates.
- Submit the form in person at any EAC Customer Service Centre
July 2026
Happy 5th anniversary to Care Days
It seems incredible that our little Care Days charity which started off so small has now rolled into this giant snow ball with Care Days operating with registered cancer charities in 4 other countries in 4 Continents and helping cancer patients in Cyprus , Greece, Holland, the UK, South Africa, The Lebanon and New Zealand.
Below shows the dramatic growth achievements of Care Days and Care Days Dreams.
July 2021 100 patients granted a Care Day
July 2024 300 patients includes 24 Dreams
July 2025 600 patients
July 2026 over 1200 patients. Includes 92 Dreams in Cyprus/Eu and 30 in S.Africa and 10 in New Zealand to come.
Our Target for end 2026 is over 1400 with what we have planned already.
July 2027 our 6 years target is over 1600 patients.
Our wonderful Care Days Sweetlove cancer detection nurse Dorothy is generously paying personally for another nurse to help her save lives through early detection of cancer in the poorer areas of Cape Town.
On top of the above figures, so far in just 3 months our Care Days Sweetlove nurse has given group talks on cancer detection to 150 patients and has referred 21 patients to a hospital for investigation for potential cancers, and in June has screened 29 patients making a total of 57 screened in just 3 months. Way above our expectations.
The costs of our Sweetlove cancer nurse have been covered for 2 ½ years as have the costs of our huge Care Days programme in conjunction with CANSA in the Cape Province until end 2027.
All the above achievements have been carried out by just 3 unpaid volunteer Directors and our cancer patient Ambassador and NONE of the above could have happened with out the amazing support from our corporate sponsors, media sponsors, 1000km shirt sponsors and many individual sponsors and of course support from CANSA.
The unique Care Days concept of offering free of charge treats in Cyprus to cancer patients and, importantly to their carers who have a very difficult job, could not have been achieved without the generous support from the Paphos Region companies who kindly offered their services free of charge ......
The Elysia Breeze Restaurant,, Markos MY Hair Salon and Beauty Salon by Elena, Fig and Olive Cottage, Annabelle Hotel, Droushia Heights Hotel, Gayle Bevan Photographer, Dominic Tai Chi, Paphos Classic Vehicle Club, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism and Constantinou Bros. Athena Beach Hotel.
The media support we have received from The Paphos Post has been outstanding as well as from Cyprus Living and Viva fm, plus without our wonderful major sponsors the Winkles, we would never have been able to launch our Dreams concept which has helped make wonderful Dreams come true for nearly 100 cancer patient in Cyprus.
Thanks to encouragement from the Astras oncology ward and many individuals and organisations such as our fabulous masseuse Judy Grove who visits the above ward every week to give free of charge massages during cancer treatment, the Paphos Strollers and Paphos Running Club, the Blevins Franks Charitable Foundation, Helen Charles London, Charlotte Graphic Designer and Printing, Printology and our great 1000kms shirt sponsors and many more, Care Days is well set for 2026.
With inflation rearing its ugly head thanks to Trump, we believe it will be more challenging raising money in 2027 but the need is there as cancer cases are growing and we encourage you to please consider sponsoring a Dream in memory of a loved one so that Care Days can continue the love and care to cancer patients.
As Andrew, the Founder of Care Days says, the emotional challenge on the three Directors and our partners overseas are huge, as death rates from cancer are still growing around the world and because Care Days and our overseas partners get very involved on a personal level to help our cancer patients and families, the pain of losing a patient is emotionally very draining.
We have sent 14 people to Droushia Heights Hotel for a Dream last month and one of them said: “Hiya, just sailing back from the blue lagoon. Thank you for bringing more magic into our lives. For the first time in weeks I haven’t woken and lived all day with a headache thank you xx” Mrs M.
This same lovely lady heard about Leah’s brain tumour in S Africa and sent her a teddy bear for her 11th birthday party. How lovely is that, to think of others when your husband has cancer!
“Thank you so much for a lovely nice chilled out night away at Droushia Heights .
It was so peaceful, it was perfect thank you again
Really appreciate it. Love E.”
These letters mean the world to Care Days.
Lebanon:
“Working with Care Days has been a natural alignment of values. Together, we aim to remind cancer patients that they are not alone, and that moments of joy and connection remain possible even in the most difficult times.” — Hani Nassar. Ceo Barbara Nasser Foundation
Care Days is delighted to announce that during the next few months in cooperation with the wonderful Barbara Nasser Foundation in Beirut, we will be taking 100 cancer patients on a full day bus trip out of the horrors of Beirut to enjoy the peace of the surrounding countryside plus sending 20 cancer patients, some of whom will have no homes to five different activities over the course of one month at the Barbara Nasser Centre in Beirut.
“Care Days support creates opportunities for patients to reconnect, share experiences and REGAIN A SENSE OF NORMALCY AND HOPE!” Nadine Barbara Nasser Foundation.
How privileged we are at Care Days to be able to help Lebanese cancer patients who are living under such terrible stress.
Focus on S Africa
The highlight of June was Leah’s 11th birthday party. This lovely little girl has lost the use of her right arm and will soon be unable to walk as a result of a brain tumour.
Abeda, our fabulous and caring coordinator with CANSA and her great volunteers really pulled out all the stops to ensure that Leah had a memorable party with 15 friends, many of whom also have cancer and 30 relatives paid for by Care Days. The organisation and effort that went into this is beyond belief and the photos below can never show the joy it brought to adults, children and volunteers alike. How very, very lucky we are to have the support of Abeda and her cancer patient volunteers from CANSA.
Care Days took advice from Andrew’s oncologist as to how best to help Leah and we are providing her with ear pods which, when she is unable to use her hands will enable her to use her phone have books read to her, chat to her friends all hands free. Whilst sometimes it is difficult to handle all the work that Care Days does, because we are small and all the money we raise goes to the patients and limited sponsored local advertising only in Cyprus, we are able to act quickly to give patients the help they need.
Without the fantastic back up we have in New Zealand, through Sweet Louise breast cancer charity, Barbara Nasser Foundation in Lebanon and of course the fabulous support from CANSA in S. Africa in Cape Province, we would ever have been so successful.
In July we are hosting a Retreat for 24 children with cancer or who have been bereaved through cancer and in August a repeat of the very successful Retreat for adult cancer patients.
We have a psychologist lined up that will do group work with the children, an educator that will do activities with them, a musician/artist that will join us in the last 2 days, a physiotherapist that will do exercise with the kids, lots of games and fun activities planned, a magician that will entertain them, 4 CANSA volunteers as caregivers!
There is excitement in the air.....the children cant wait!!
Care Days .....Live the Dream
International Care Days 4U Ltd. Not for profit registered company: HE 466660
June 2026 Paphos Post
June 2026
Working with Care Days has been a natural alignment of values. Together, we aim to remind cancer patients that they are not alone, and that moments of joy and connection remain possible even in the most difficult times.” - Hani Nassar.
**
CARE DAYS GOES TO LEBANON!
In 1965, long before founding Care Days, Andrew Lauder travelled by car from the UK through Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt before beginning university. Lebanon left a deep impression on him and his best friend.
Today, Lebanon faces one of the most difficult periods in its modern history. According to UNICEF, more than one million people have been displaced from a population of 5.8 million. Over 3,000 people have lost their lives, including more than 600 children who have been killed or injured. Families have lost homes, livelihoods, and loved ones, while many continue to live in uncertainty and distress.
Amid this crisis are people quietly facing another devastating battle: cancer.
Lebanon records approximately 13,000 new cancer cases every year and more than 7,300 deaths. Behind these figures are men and women enduring cancer treatment while coping with displacement, trauma, financial hardship, and loss. For many, even a single day of emotional relief feels out of reach.
Andrew, Jenny and Charlotte were so moved by the Sky news report on the man who had his house bombed and lost all his family and spent days physically going through the rubble to try to find memories of his family. It raised an important question:
How can we help?
It was in seeking an answer to this question that Care Days began to look more closely at partners on the ground who could bring both compassion and practical support to cancer patients in Lebanon. As so often was the case, Andrew sought God’s guidance and, by the following morning, felt gently led to the Barbara Nassar Association for Cancer Patient Support in Beirut.
In 2009, Barbara Nassar was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer with bone metastasis and was given only a year to live. Yet during more than 100 chemotherapy sessions, Barbara and her husband Hani and their children Leonie and Leonard travelled across Lebanon, visiting over 1,655 villages to raise awareness, offer hope, and advocate for cancer patients.
Out of this extraordinary journey of resilience and advocacy, their determination led to the Minister of Interior signing the authorisation for the creation of the Barbara Nassar for Cancer Support. Sadly, Barbara passed away shortly afterwards, having fulfilled her dream of creating hope for others facing cancer, but her vision lived on.
She would have applauded our 450 patients from 4 Continents who shouted out “We are stronger than Cancer!” at our 2000 km fun walk in March, as this is what she showed the world, as do many of our brave cancer patients.
Her husband, Hani Nassar and their children, continued the mission, and in 2025 the Barbara Nassar Cancer Centre for Supportive Care, the first of its kind, opened in Beirut, creating a Home of Hope where patients can receive psychological and physical rehabilitation, dignity, comfort, guidance and companionship throughout their cancer journey.
It was within this living legacy that Care Days found a natural alignment. Andrew and Jenny later had the privilege of meeting Hani Nassar over Zoom, and within minutes it became clear that both organisations shared the same belief: cancer care must extend beyond treatment; patients also need hope, emotional healing, community, and moments of joy.
This is where Care Days begins.
Care Days is contributing EUR 1,000 to enable 100 cancer patients, including some who have been displaced, to leave Beirut by coach for restorative day outings to experience the beauty, peace, and cultural richness that Lebanon still holds. These moments of respite matter. A day surrounded by nature, history, companionship, and laughter can restore strength in ways medicine alone cannot.
In addition, Andrew and Jenny are personally donating a further EUR 1,000 so that 50 more patients can benefit from wellbeing activities and psychosocial support at the Barbara Nassar Cancer Centre, reflecting the same compassionate approach to cancer care that Care Days supports through CANSA in South Africa.
We understand that this war has caused inflation around the Globe, but these patients in Lebanon really do deserve a break, so we are launching a special 5th anniversary of Care Days campaign to ask those of you who feel they can help to support the Eu 2000 already promised by sponsoring a Dream in Lebanon in memory of a loved one. We will personally match any donations made specifically for Lebanon with a donation to CANSA/ Care Days for 2027, so your gift will effectively be doubled!!
If you feel moved to support this cause, please contact Andrew at caredayscyprus@aol.com. Because Care Days operates entirely through unpaid volunteers, 100% of the funds raised will go directly to supporting cancer patients in Lebanon. Updates and feedback on the impact of your generosity will be shared with supporters, so you can see the difference your kindness is making.
EUROBANK account for donation transfers:
Account name: INTERNATIONAL CARE DAYS 4 U LTD
IBAN number: CY670050058900058901H5909601
Bank's SWIFT: HEBACY2N
Eurobank's address: Corner Limassol & 200 Athalassa Avenue, 2025 Strovolos, Nicosia, Cyprus
Please ensure "Lebanon " is your reference with your name.
Thank you,
Andrew, Jenny and Charlotte
May 2026
CARE DAYS.....WE ARE STRONGER THAN CANCER
This is the message that 450 walkers shouted out over 4 Continents on March 22nd.
Cancer needs to be looked firmly in the eye and we know from our personal experience talking to so many of our cancer patients that taking a positive approach to cancer is so beneficial.
Judging by the smiles on their faces (on a different page,) everyone seemed to enjoy our 1000km fun walk in Cyprus and South Africa, with the singers and musicians adding so much to give us all a great send off.
We raised more than we had budgeted thanks to some amazing team and individual efforts and the bubbly for the largest contribution from a team went to Clint and his Winkles team and the largest single donation went to Steve Sweetlove, who, shortly after recovering from cancer, did a marathon up 3 peaks in Yorkshire and raised an amazing Eu1900 to help pay for the Care Days Sweetlove nurse in Cape Town next year, in memory of his Dad, Jenny’s husband, who died of cancer.
The 5k walk together with our Sponsor a Dream programme are so important to Care Days because of the enormous growth we have seen in the number of cancer patients we are helping in Cyprus and South Africa. In less than 5 years we will have looked after twelve times more cancer patients than in our first year, because Care Days really is a unique concept and can only survive through the generosity of our sponsors.
The Droushia Heights Hotel has very generously agreed to extend their offer of a room throughout the year on a Monday to a Thursday excluding July and August. This hotel offers the most amazing views of the Troodos mountains gently dropping into Chrysochou Bay, wonderful staff and meals a massive pool and is a haven of tranquility.
Care Days has received a very generous donation from Angel Guardians and we have produced a leaflet specially for them as Care Days also offers support to those bereaved through cancer and supports the Paphos Bereavement Group by giving them updates on the services offered to cancer patients and those bereaved through cancer.
A member of the PCVC, Paul, has very kindly offered to take cancer patients out in his beautiful AC Cobra which he is in the process of renovating. Now that will be a great experience!
In July Care Days will celebrate its fifth birthday (and Andrew’s 80th!) so we are busy thinking about how to celebrate the joy it has given us to help so many cancer patients, now over 1100!
Below you will read some of the comments that our patients have been kind enough to send us. They fill us with humility and pride at the same time and Andrew, Jenny and Charlotte are determined to find a way to ensure that Care Days continues as our legacy long into the future in both Cyprus and South Africa.
“Care Days have blessed so many lives with your dreams. You are truly heaven sent. Touching so many lives and bringing the light at a time where most of us are at our lowest point and struggle to find that light." Mrs. E
It is with great sadness that we have to tell you that one of our Care Days patients lost her battle with cancer last week .
Tracey Paling Etches was one of the most positive people that we met. The first time Andrew met her, he was wired up for treatment in the Dr. ASTRAS oncology ward at St Georges Hospital when this enormous smile burst onto the ward, followed by Tracey. This lovely lady had a smile that simply lit up the ward and the world and her smile helped patients and nursing staff to get through the treatment.
For Andrew, Jenny and Charlotte she was an inspiration and however ill Andrew felt, Tracey's smile was infectious.
But it didn't stop there!
Because Tracey was Stage 4, Care Days was able to offer her and her loving husband Kevin, Dreams and Care Days treats to look forward to and back on with pleasure, including a break at Droushia Heights Hotel and Fig and Olive.
Thanks to the Paphos Classic Vehicle Club kindly offering trips to cancer patients, they were able to enjoy some beautiful cars together, and I will never forget the smile on their faces as they sat in the back of a beautiful Bentley, giving the royal wave !
In return Care Days has benefitted hugely by Tracey and Kevin and friends raising Eu2200 to go towards our cancer patients in S.Africa. They put in a team in our 5k walk last year and this year although Tracey was too ill on March 22nd she, in a wheelchair, Kevin and 9 others walked the 5k a week later and the smile on their faces say it all.
As a mark of our appreciation for the joy that Tracey brought to our lives and those of so many cancer patients, we are dedicating our 2 day Retreat later this year in CapeTown to Tracey and those CANSA/ Care Days patients in S.Africa who lost their battle with cancer .
The world will be a poorer place without her.
FOCUS on S.Africa.
Samantha “Through CANSA/Care Days, God has shown us that he has not forgotten about us.”
“Care Days has an incredible impact on so many lives. Actions consistently show care and uplift to others especially those overburdened by life. It can’t be measured. In darkest moments you remind us there is still hope. Care Days create opportunities where once there were none. You make us feel we are not alone. Care Days change lives by opening doors for those with cancer, giving them a chance when life pushed them to the edge. You inspire people to become better and inspire hope and a legacy. Never grow weary of doing good.”
The growth of CANSA/Care Days in South Africa has exceeded our wildest expectations and this is entirely due to the efforts put in by Abeda, our Care Days coordinator, Dorothy, who ran the whole Cape Region for CANSA and who is now taking on the role of our Sweetlove nurse in her retirement!, and the amazing fact that so, so many of our patients have become volunteers for CANSA/Care Days.
Because we are a small Charity we can be flexible and make decisions to help patients quickly. For example, we recently organised through Abeda a birthday party for a lovely little girl called Chante who had never had a birthday party before.
Leah is just 10 years old and has a brain tumour, so Abeda has organised a pamper party for her.
Being in this favoured position of helping people, many of whom are from the poorer communities in South Africa, seeing the smiles on their faces, reading the unbelievable messages of joy, seeing the beautiful specially designed CANSA/Care Days shirts and banners and the scale of our whole operation fills us with such joy that we are in discussions with the CEO of CANSA about setting up a Foundation in the Cape Region so that we can leave a continued legacy in South Africa after we are no longer here.
Kashiefa Dollie, who we first met just two years ago sadly died last month. Like most cancer patients she was an inspiration to others and our thoughts go to her husband who gave her such support.
Last month saw the launch of our Care Days Sweetlove nurse with the lovely Dorothy DuPlooy taking on this difficult role for one day a week.
Already she has referred a patient with suspected secondary cancer for investigation which could save her life and has been very busy organising this exciting new role including an excellent radio interview.
Our wonderful Care Days cancer diagnosis Sweetlove nurse has really hit the ground running and we are so very proud of what she has achieved in her first month:7 referrals for possible cancers ,6 referrals to local clinics for miscellaneous non cancer complaints and an incredible 18 Group talks.
Sister Dorothy will work with community clinics in the poorer areas of Cape Town and see individuals referred by community organisations offering free services in communities where patients are unable to pay for a consultation or referral. Her main function is to consult, refer for examinations and testing and diagnostics using her extensive contacts. Once diagnosis is received Abeda will take over the Psycho Social Support.
Andrew and Jenny have paid for the first year, Steve Sweetlove’s contribution plus our second largest ever donation in memory of our friend Julia Hope will ensure continuity for a further 18 months at which time we will assess what effect our Sweetlove nurse has had in terms of saving lives through earlier detection of cancer.
We are so very grateful to Dorothy for taking on this role in some of the most dangerous areas of Cape Town where the clinics have a police presence.
As if the 150 patients who took part in the walk and beach party were not enough, CANSA Care Days organised a day’s Retreat for 20 survivors last month,
During the last few weeks, we have received so very many testimonials from cancer patients in Cyprus and S.Africa and Jenny, Charlotte and Andrew are finding it almost impossible to believe the effect that CANSA/Care Days are having on patients.
Sadly in S.Africa 60% of the population lives below the poverty line, so many do not receive the diagnosis and subsequent treatment that they require. CANSA/Care Days offers our patients in Cyprus and S.Africa, a welcome break from the treadmill of cancer and the appreciation and love shown in these messages is very humbling and makes us and Abeda and Dorothy determined to carry on.
“Dear Andrew and Jenny, CAREDAYS inspires me to do more. I love what I am doing, it is an extension of who I am. Thanks for providing me with these amazing opportunities. Love and regards Abeda.”
Fatima: ” Where do I begin? Care Days has such a big impact on our patients’ lives. Some never been out of Cape Town, seen an ocean or eaten out. Never had a birthday party. Care Days comes and looks after us and gives us all these things. I love helping them as a volunteer and patient .. I just love Care Days ...wearing their shirt. I love talking to everyone I meet about Care Days and just love the smile on faces Care Days bring, by being there for all of us. "
Care Days …..Live the Dream
International Care Days 4U Ltd. Reg #HE466660
CARE DAYS HAVE GIVEN OVER 1000 CARE DAYS AND DREAMS!
450 walkers took part over 4 Continents supporting Care Days and CANSA/CARE DAYS!
New 2 year cooperation contract signed by CANSA/CARE DAYS!
CARE DAYS SWEETLOVE NURSE STARTS IN CAPE AREA !
STEVE SWEETLOVE COMPLETES 3 PEAKS MARATHON IN UNDER 12 HOURS..RAISES OVER Eu1800 FOR NURSE IN SA!
What an extraordinary month of achievements this has been for Care Days in Cyprus, UK and South Africa.
When Andrew first started Care Days 4 years ago, he hoped we could look after a maximum of 100 patients in a year but with the support from The Winkles, the amazing Paphos businesses who offer Care Days free of charge , remarkable athletes such as Tom Schnitzius and Steve Sweetlove, our media partners, Dr Astras Oncology staff and the business and private sponsors of Dreams, plus the full cooperation of the 95 year old Cancer Association of South Africa, this has more than doubled.
The highlight of March has been the 5k, 1000km fun walk which turned into an over 2000km fun walk over 4 Continents .
The forecast in Cyprus, the UK with snow on the mountains and Cape Town was not good and did affect the numbers on the day, but many in Cyprus are walking on another day .
The Winkles beer cart was a great success and the teams entered by the Paphos Strollers, Helen Charles London , The Friend’s Hospice raising money for themselves , the TLC School, Andrew Jenny and Charlotte’s team and so many individuals, raised enough to cover 0some of the increased requirements for 2026 in Cyprus and in S.Africa supported by large donations from Andrew and Jenny .
With success comes the need to raise more money so that we never have to turn any cancer patient away.
THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED AROUND THE WORLD !
Thanks also to Charlotte from Charlotte Graphic and Website Design who administered the whole event and the Paphos Post and all our shirt sponsors .
Finally what an amazing entertainment from Clare and her great saxophonists from the TLC, the lovely 11 year old Lake and 15 year-old Sophia whose singing inspired her Dad with cancer, and to end it all with Judith from The Paphos Post and Revival singing the most beautiful rendition of “ When you walk through a storm,” which God very kindly avoided by bringing out the sun for our walk.
WHAT A GREAT DAY! THANK YOU ALL.
Meanwhile, whilst we were enjoying ourselves ,Steve Sweetlove and his back up team, recently recovered from cancer and whose Dad died of cancer, were battling up 3 Yorkshire snow covered peaks doing a marathon. The dangers of this were highlighted when one of the Team had to pull out after the first ascent after dislocating his knee as they got to the top, and he then had to walk with them for 11 miles to the first place they could get him to the road and support vehicle. Happily he has recovered. What an incredible thing to do to help early diagnosis of our patients with cancer from the poorer areas of S Africa.
In the Cape area the excitement from our coordinator, the caring Abeda, was the same:
“The walk on 22 March 2026 at 9am was a great success. We had 115 participants in support of CANSA/CARE DAYS walking across 4 continents at the same time. Fadwa my colleague and I welcomed everyone and explained the beautiful relationship that started just 2 ago years between CARE DAYS and CANSA.
We explained to the group what the vision of CARE DAYS entails, and what has been achieved to date and relayed the amazing fundraising events and collaborations initiated by them. We emphasized that CARE DAYS has extended its wings. They have formed relationships with significant other interested players in the United Kingdom, America, New Zealand and Cyprus. These new overseas investors are inspired by your vision for South Africa, and are pleased to be associated with your organisation.
We expressed our gratitude to everyone for showing up for the walk. The weather was windy at the start but later the wind settled down.
Each participant was given a bottled water, at the start of the race. We walked the 5km leisurely chatting to survivors and caregivers. Family members had joined the walk, pushing their mom in the wheelchair, others had joined the mother/grandmother pushing their little ones in prams. Galiema walked with the aid of her crutches.
It was indeed a beautiful sight to behold. The mood was great with smiling faces everywhere.
At the end of the walk, we distributed fruit. Those that were hungry we offered refreshments accompanied by sandwiches and muffins provided by Care Days.
Afrer the event many left asking us to invite them to the next CARE DAYS/CANSA event.
The photos next month of a most memorable morning express our gratitude towards CARE DAYS/CANSA for creating memories and spreading love and commitment. CARE DAYS creates the opportunity for the cancer survivor to live a meaningful life . With heartfelt appreciation.
But we didn’t stop there. The next day, we organised our beach party, as the Atlantis support group expressed sadness that they would be unable to join the CARE DAYS walk on 22 March .The majority of them are living below the poverty line, and so much wanted to be part of the greater vision of CARE DAYS. It was then agreed that we will host the extension of the walk on 23 March to accommodate them. Since Melkbostrand was within reach and transport to the beach was affordable, this destination was chosen. The Kensington and Mitchells Plain CANSA support groups wanted to show their support to the Atlantis cancer support group and therefore willingly agreed to partake in the activities of the day.
We were 45 people in total and had great fun, creating memories by walking, playing games and doing some exercises including laughter therapy. All participants were treated to a brunch with refreshments. Later some tea and biscuits. A hot meal was served at lunchtime. All refreshments courtesy of CARE DAYS. With love and gratitude to CARE DAYS.
Abeda Steenkamp Social Worker CANSA S.Africa: "How proud and humble we from Care Days felt to enjoy the sea of beautifully designed CANSA/Care Days shirts. Next month a further 150 patients and volunteers will walk 5k, 600 kms. Away from Cape Town."
Back in Cyprus, the lovely Droushia Heights Hotel have very kindly made available 1 night b&b except July, August and Christmas for selected Care Days cancer patients across Cyprus who are still being treated . This great offer is also available as a Dream for 2 nights bed and breakfast for terminal and secondary patients or those where both partners have cancer.
This is a very popular option.
Andrew, Jenny and Charlotte, are all unpaid volunteers who pay for all their own travelling expenses so that the money you donate all goes to cancer patients or limited advertising in Cyprus.
FOCUS ON S.AFRICA.
A new 2 year contract was signed by ELIZE Joubert the Ceo of CANSA and Andrew Lauder , in which Abeda is the coordinator for CANSA/ Care Days events and Dorothy Duplooy who ran the Cape District takes on the role of our Care Days self employed Sweetlove nurse for one day a week for a trial period of 12 months to be extended to 24 months if successful in saving lives through early diagnosis in the poorer areas of The Cape.
The beauty of this is that once diagnosed, then Abeda as CANSA/ Care Days coordinator will act as their social services carer offering treats tailor made .
Care Days is so very lucky to be cooperating with such lovely, caring, dedicated and kind people at CANSA .
“Thank you for your kind message and for your wonderful partnership over the past two years-it's truly making a life-changing difference for cancer patients in the Cape Region, thanks to the positive patient feedback and Abeda Steenkamp's excellent co-operation.” Elize Joubert Ceo CANSA
For example, we are now offering grief counselling sessions which the bereaved children are attending as they are of tremendous value to them. They are blossoming with each session.
The lady that helps to transport them, Sr Alna commented that these children were so quiet and lost7. She now sees them chatting and talking about the memory box they made for their mom. They will continue to put letters and small items therein which reminds them of their late Mom. 8 children are in bereavement counselling.
“Thank you CARE DAYS you made all this possible.”
The Sweetlove nurse has started making contacts in March and a full report will be given in our May editorial in the Paphos Post. We believe that this great idea of Jenny’s will be of great benefit to many and are grateful to Nurse Dorothy for taking on this difficult job and to CANSA for their cooperation .
We conclude with these lovely words from Abeda :
“The editorial is always so heart warming and leaves one with an amazing feeling of so much has been accomplished .The extended hands of CARE DAYS reach out to give more and go farther in untouched territories to bring a smile wherever they go. Continue the beautiful vision of promoting the CARE DAYS Dream. This dream encapsulates the snowball effect ,that wherever it lands its brings hope, inspiration and positive change in the life of cancer patients (joy, sense of nurturing, and enlightenment ).”
Love and regards
Abeda CANSA/ Care Days coordinator
Care Days ….Live the Dream
International Care Days 4U Ltd. Reg #HE466660
23/3/2026
We would all like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who joined us yesterday for our Care Days Dreams 5km walk!
Despite early forecasts predicting rain, we were incredibly fortunate to enjoy beautiful weather, and even more grateful for the amazing turnout. Your presence, energy, and support made the event truly special and helped create a wonderful atmosphere for such an important cause.
We also understand that the initial weather forecast may have prevented some from attending, but we deeply appreciate all the support shown in every form.
For those who have collected sponsorships and have not yet had the chance to submit them, we kindly ask that all outstanding contributions be transferred to the following Eurobank account (formerly Hellenic):
Account Name: INTERNATIONAL CARE DAYS 4 U LTD
Account Number: 589-01-H59096-01
IBAN: CY670050058900058901H5909601
We are pleased to share that photos from the day will be uploaded to our website and Facebook page over the coming week, so keep an eye out for those special moments.
Team leaders, please kindly forward this email on to your team members so everyone stays informed.
Once again, thank you for being part of this initiative and for helping us make it such a success.
Warm regards,
CARE DAYS TO BE LAUNCED Care Days to be launched in New Zealand!
Care Days to be launched in New Zealand!
Andrew Lauder, the Founder and Chairman of Care Days is delighted to announce that a cooperation agreement has been reached with the registered charity Sweet Louise in Auckland New Zealand to launch Sweet Louise / Care Days in New Zealand.
Sweet Louise was set up 10 years ago by the husband of a very positive breast cancer patient who died 10 years after diagnosis, having led a full and active life. Since then, Sweet Louise has cared for over 800 terminal breast cancer patients ensuring counselling and emotional support and, like Care Days, offering Dreams in various forms.
The main difference is that Sweet Louise raise money to pay for the services they offer which is why Catrin Devonald, the CEO immediately understood the unique Care Days concept of services being offered free of charge by local businesses.
Already Care Days have negotiated a special price for Sweet Louise patients at a fabulous harbour front penthouse in Auckland and an equally fabulous 4 bedroom house overlooking the Bay of Islands.
Andrew was very impressed by the friendly smiling faces of the volunteers and staff at Sweet Louise as it is just what cancer patients need when they walk in, as he knows from his own experience of cancer.
Already, a coordinator, Ngaire, has been appointed to work together with local companies to organise Care Days free of charge, meaning that more money is left for Sweet Louise to offer the amazing counselling, Dreams and support services that they offer across New Zealand.
Andrew and Jenny feel very fortunate to have reached an agreement for Care Days to cooperate with Sweet Louise, as the ethics of both charities are mirror images of care for cancer patients and giving patients a break from the treadmill of cancer.
Finally, thanks to the sister of his oldest friend and her two lovely daughters who live in New Zealand, they are walking 5k on March 22nd with friends so that Care Days will be represented in 4 Continents on that day!
Plans are being discussed for a much bigger involvement in 2027 to help Sweet Louise.
Care Days....Live the Dream
International Care Days 4 U Ltd. Reg HE 466660
Sweet Louise Charity Reg. CC3170
Care Days / Friend’s Hospice 1000km fun walk Sunday March 22nd
Our big event is our 1000km fun walk along the coastal path at 10.00 a.m.
Yet again the response so far has been good, plus Andrew & Jenny have committed to each walk 100kms beforehand .
The venue is the coastal path behind the Elysium Hotel.
Try to get there early as we have music from the TLC School, plus 2 lovely young girls singing, one of whose Dads has cancer and it is a great atmosphere.
The Winkles will keep us entertained with a bigger team ( and monster beer cart!) and many patients are putting in a team as are Helen Charles Salon London, TLC and the Paphos Strollers as they know that we are all unpaid volunteers who claim no expenses apart from graphic design, so all the money raised goes to cancer patients and limited but vital advertising only in Cyprus.
This year yet again The Paphos Post is supporting us and Viva fm are doing a live broadcast, so please let the Team know if you would like to tell everyone about the difference that Care Days and the Friend’s Hospice are making to you. A huge thank you to Charlotte from Charlotte Graphic Design for handling ALL the administration of Care Days and the walk.
Also apart from the great team in Cyprus we have a large team of patients walking the beach in S.Africa, a team in New Zealand, Tom Schnitzius the ultra runner and Lisa walking in America and in the UK we have Jenny’s stepson Steve doing a 3 peaks marathon in 12 hours after just recovering from cancer in aid of our Sweetlove Cancer Nurse as well as Andrew’ s son Bruce walking and the family of our first Dreams patient all on the same day and all for Care Days.
Steve's attempt to do a marathon up 3 mountains in12 hours just after a serious cancer is a really amazing gesture to help others .
Our little Care Days snowball of 4 years ago has grown and grown as it rolls down the hill gathering impetus to help more cancer patients. Who would have thought our little Dream would be represented in 4 Continents in just 4 years and would have looked after over 800 cancer patients ?
Last year Care Days and Friend’s Hospice did amazingly well on our fun walk. If we can raise a similar amount this year it will be a great achievement.
Although walker forms need to be in by end January you can still join us of you apply later but we may not be able to order a shirt for you. The sponsor forms and money you raise should please be paid on the day . Thanks for the great response so far!
The special deal with the lovely Droushia Heights Hotel has been very well received as the letter below confirms:
Dearest Andrew and all the Dream Team, I just want to say an ENORMOUS thank you for the lovely stay you gave us at the lovely Drousheia heights hotel!!! We had a wonderful, relaxing stay and owe it all to all of you. May God bless and protect you always and keep you safe to be able to continue your very caring and generous acts of kindness. Care Days are like angels here on earth, thank you, thank you, thank you xxxxxxx Mrs.P
Focus on S.Africa
After New Zealand Andrew and Jenny flew to S.Africa, entirely at their own expense and will be personally taking nearly100 patients on a Care Day.
The first event was a snack dinner at the 5 star seafront President Hotel . This event established Care Days in S Africa last year and it was so full of life, joy and laughter even though many have terminal cancer. To be both given the privilege of being hugged by these beautiful women as they thanked us even though many were Moslem and to hold their hand as they told their story highlighted that different religions can and should work together instead of the massacre and displacement we have seen in Gaza.
What we found here and what they all found at the wonderful Retreat was that, if handled with love, compassion and care , cancer can bring patients of all religions together, rich or poor.
As our lovely Dream recipient Weedadt, who donated her Dream money to benefit others in her village, said :” These lovely people make you want to be better.”
What really touched Jenny and I was that sooo many patients here with cancer have also become helpers. This is extraordinary and as Abeda , the wonderful Social Services manager says” Positivity abounds.” This after we lost three Mums just before Christmas making orphans of 7 children. We so wish more people could experience the joy that our CANSA /CARE DAYS patients bring to these Care Days and in next month’s Paphos Post we will try to paint a picture for you of individuals like the lovely 7 year old Amaahra who has bone cancer and a brain tumour ...and her mother who has cancer and has been at the very edge of despair but now is so positive .
At the end of the meeting Andrew asked them to all stand up and shout with a smile on our faces :
“I am stronger than cancer!”
Next month, too, you will learn how the CANSA/CARE DAYS SWEETLOVE NURSE is going to change lives. We launch it on Voice of the Cape Radio in a 20 minute interview on their Mornings with Meaning slot together with the lovely Dorothy who is taking on the role of the Sweetlove nurse.
Care Days....Live the Dream
International Care Days 4 U Ltd. Reg HE 466660
