Living Proof: The Power of One Match – A Day of Inspiration with SABMR

As part of the Voys team, we were proud to attend and participate in this truly remarkable event. From the moment guests began arriving, the Peninsula Hotel was filled with a sense of anticipation, an energy that felt both hopeful and deeply human. Conversations started gently, with handshakes and introductions, but very quickly it became clear that this was more than just another gathering. This was a room full of people connected by one powerful thread: the belief that one match can change everything.

The heart of the event unfolded through the stories that were shared. Donors spoke of registering almost on a whim, something done in passing, never expecting to be called upon, only to later learn that their decision had saved a life. Recipients, in turn, stood before the audience as living proof of what those decisions meant, describing moments of fear, resilience, and the overwhelming gratitude of being given another chance at life. Each testimony drew us in, reminding everyone present of the extraordinary difference one person can make.

What made the day so moving was the way these stories wove together into something larger. It wasn’t just about one donor or one recipient, it was about the courage, generosity, and connection that tie all of us together. The room seemed to pause in those moments, holding onto every word, every silence, every heartbeat of the story being told.

Beyond the stories, the event carried an important call to action. Many people still don’t realise how simple it can be to join the stem cell registry and how profoundly such a step can impact someone else’s life. The event shone a light on the opportunities we all have, whether in universities, workplaces, or communities, to raise awareness, encourage registration, and ultimately save more lives.

By the time the evening drew to a close, what lingered wasn’t just the speeches or the applause, but the sense of unity. The event reminded us all that while science makes stem cell transplants possible, it’s people, their choices, their generosity, their willingness to act, that make them a reality. And that is something worth celebrating every single day.

Sharing my story as a recipient in front of donors, recipients, and advocates was both humbling and surreal. I usually speak about SEO, Surfing, Business telephony – Only Voys though 😎 and technology, but that day, I spoke about survival, hope, and the extraordinary impact of giving. I spoke about fear, uncertainty, and the quiet strength we find in moments of challenge. And most of all, I spoke about gratitude, the kind that fills you to the brim and reminds you that every act of generosity, every single match, can change a life in ways that are impossible to measure.

As I looked around the room, I saw faces lit with compassion, curiosity, and a shared understanding of the power of one match. It was a room full of people who not only understood the science behind stem cell donation but also the deeply human stories behind it. That day, I wasn’t just Val from work, I was Jared, a living testament to what hope, courage, and generosity can achieve. It was a day I’ll carry with me forever, a reminder of the difference one person can make, and the collective impact we all share when we choose to give.

The Stories That Inspire

At the heart of the event were the stories, the ones that stayed with you long after you left the room. They weren’t just anecdotes; they were living proof of how a single decision can ripple outward and transform countless lives.

One donor recalled joining the registry almost casually, “just because,” never imagining that simple act would one day give another human being the chance to keep living. On the other side of the spectrum, a recipient shared how that one match, one stranger who said yes, had literally saved their life. In that moment, the audience wasn’t just listening; we were holding our breath, caught between the vulnerability of near-loss and the miracle of survival.

These stories weren’t about statistics or science, they were about courage, generosity, and the profound threads of human connection that tie us all together.

What made them even more powerful was the reminder that there is always more we can do. Many people don’t realise how simple it is to join the stem cell registry. It takes so little time, yet the impact is nothing short of life-changing. Imagine if every university student, every workplace team, every community gathering carried this message forward, how many more lives could be saved by someone deciding to take that small step?

And then there are the extraordinary individuals at the SABMR, who don’t just talk about hope but live it every single day. Their dedication goes far beyond duty, it’s a calling. They are relentless in their mission to connect those in need of an allogeneic stem cell transplant with the best possible match for survival. To witness their work is to witness passion in its purest form.

You would be hard-pressed to find a team anywhere in the world as committed and selfless as the SABMR. From Dr. Charlotte Ingram, to the tireless dedication of Mrs. Jane Ward, the steadfast efforts of Khulood Isaacs, and the unwavering compassion of Marzelle Bothma, their work shines as a true embodiment of what it means to fight for life, nurture human connection, and keep the possibility of hope alive everyday.

Resilience: Lessons From Marietta Hopley

A defining moment of the event was the keynote by Marietta Hopley, whose words filled the room with both passion and wisdom. She spoke about the importance of living fully while embracing resilience—not as an abstract concept, but as a daily practice. Her message went beyond inspiration; it felt like a roadmap for facing life’s challenges with courage, whether you’re a patient navigating treatment, a donor stepping into the unknown, or simply someone grappling with the unexpected turns life can take.

Marietta reminded us that life is unpredictable, sometimes it flows in our favour, and other times it throws us into the storm. Yet, like having nine lives, we carry within us the ability to rise, adapt, and begin again. Her words were a powerful call to cherish each moment, to hold onto hope, and to keep moving forward, no matter what comes our way.

Marrietta’s words reminded everyone present that resilience is more than enduring difficulty; it’s about thriving in the face of it. It’s something both donors and recipients embody every day, and it’s a mindset we can all adopt in our own lives.

Spotlight on Voys

Our team was also thrilled to hear Natalie give an engaging update on Voys, explaining who we are as a company, what we do, and how our team works together to make a difference. From providing cutting-edge VoIP solutions to supporting organisations like SABMR, it was inspiring to see how our work goes beyond business, it’s about connection, collaboration, and supporting causes that save lives and truly make a difference.

Celebrating Donors: Everyday Heroes

The donors in the room were the true heroes of the day. They reminded us that heroism doesn’t always come with a cape, it can come in the form of a cheek swab, a willingness to be matched, and a commitment to potentially save someone’s life.

It’s also important to note that anyone who fits the eligibility criteria can become a donor. Joining the registry is simple, and the impact you could have is immeasurable. By taking this step, you could be the life-changing match for someone in need.

How We Can All Do Better

While the day was a celebration, it also sparked reflection. What more can we do to support donors, recipients, and the registry itself? Some opportunities include:

• Raising Awareness in Communities: Many people still don’t know how easy it is to register as a donor. Local campaigns, workplace drives, and university initiatives can make a huge difference.
  
• Sharing Stories: Personal narratives are powerful. Encouraging recipients and donors to share their journeys inspires others to take action.
  
• Providing Support Networks: Donors and recipients alike benefit from connection—forums, events, and mentorship programs can offer guidance and reassurance.
  
• Corporate Partnerships: Companies can play a key role by supporting events, promoting registration, and creating platforms for employees to participate.
  

Growing the Event Year on Year

At Voys, we see immense value in events like Living Proof. Our goal is to grow this event year on year, reaching more people and spreading greater awareness about SABMR and the incredible work they do in South Africa. Every year, more donors, recipients, and advocates can come together to share stories, celebrate life, and inspire action.

A Day of Connection and Reflection

For the Voys team, attending Living Proof wasn’t just about participation—it was about connection. Connecting with donors, recipients, and fellow advocates reinforced the real reason we support SABMR: to amplify the life-saving impact of every match.

And yes, for anyone who’s wondering—I am Val (most of the time), but for this day, I was also Jared. A recipient, a storyteller, and someone endlessly grateful for the generosity of others. It was a humbling reminder that behind every statistic, every match, and every donor, there’s a human life profoundly affected.

Join the Movement

If there’s one thing this event made clear, it’s that one match can truly change a life. We encourage everyone reading this to consider joining the South African Bone Marrow Registry, spreading awareness, or supporting the SABMR in any way you can. Your action could save a life—maybe even someone you know.

A heartfelt thank you to the entire SABMR team, without the dedication and effort of every single member, this event wouldn’t have been as seamless, inspiring, or impactful as it was. Your work is truly commendable, and partnering with SABMR is an experience we will always treasure.

To learn more about the registry and how you can make a difference, visit: The SABMR and learn more about how easy it is to become a donor.

At Voys, we’re proud to champion community and cause-driven connections that go beyond traditional telephony. Supporting initiatives like this is part of what sets us apart, not just as a VoIP provider, but as a team committed to making meaningful impact in the communities we serve.