A dream has come true for Cody-Lee Africa, 4, who is in remission from a rare form of cancer, as Reach For A Dream arranged for him to be a firefighter for a day to celebrate his birthday.
His family, from Kraaifontein, in December shared that they were praying for a Christmas miracle after his parents discovered a lump on his body in October 2024.
Cody-Lee was diagnosed Burkitt lymphoma, a cancer that develops in lymph nodes (glands) or lymphoid tissue and may be strongly associated with certain viral infections, immunodeficiency, or syndromes.
It is the third most common cancer of the glands in children but may also occur in adults.
Doctors previously described the cancer as being aggressive and that the tumour could double in size within 18 to 24 hours.
Last month, the Cape Argus shared the emotional moment when Cody-Lee was able to ring the bell in the Oncology ward at Tygerberg Hospital, signifying his end of chemotherapy.
His mother, Leticia Peters, said it has been his dream to become a firefighter and to ride in a firetruck.
On March 8, this came true for the little boy who was able to spend an afternoon with firefighters who allowed him to use the power house and to ride in one of their trucks, which was made possible by Reach For A Dream.
“Reach For A Dream set Cody’s dream into motion and another cancer association was also involved,” Peters said.
“My goal is to give other parents hope and inspire them to have faith.
“I was at my wits end in the beginning but God hears our prayers.”
Heidi Rowley, Reach For A Dream branch manager in the Western Cape, said Cody-Lee’s party was hosted at the Bugz Playpark.
“Seeing Cody’s excitement as he explored Bugz Playpark with such energy and curiosity was incredibly special,” she said.
“His fearless spirit, infectious laughter, and sheer delight in his new red ride on car brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
"Moments like these remind us why we do what we do, creating memories that uplift not only our Dreamers but their entire families.
“We are grateful to have played a part in bringing so much happiness to Cody-Lee and his loved ones.”
Earlier, Laticia Pienaar of Tygerberg Hospital said Cody-Lee would continue his road to healing with his survivorship programme.
Since Peters is unable to work while taking care of Cody-Lee, the family has started a Backabuddy appeal and is aiming to raise R20 000.
If you want to assist visit www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/cody-leigh-cancer-relief-fund
Cape Argus