WATCH | Stewien embarks on second Midmar Mile Charity Challenge

For the second year in a row, Krystle Stewien took on the aQuellé Midmar Mile Eight-Mile Charity Challenge not for personal glory, but in honour of children battling cancer and a beloved family member whose courage continues to shape her journey. Stewien joined hundreds of swimmers who swam the eight Midmar Miles in support of the Charity Challenge which was on Thursday and Friday. This weekend thousands more swimmers will challenge the Midmar waters including family teams and others.

Race director of the aQuellé Midmar Mile, Wayne Riddin also swam eight miles to help the National Council for People with Disability raise R100 000, reinforcing his deep belief in inclusion and equal opportunity for all. Stewien and 37 other swimmers swam in support of CHOC, the childhood cancer organisation dedicated to early detection and comprehensive support for affected families. Seven years ago, Stewien lost her sister-in-law, Melissa Geach, to cancer after a two-year battle and dedicates her eighth mile in honour of her.

She fought unbelievably hard. Watching someone you love go through that pain and suffering never leaves you. She left behind her husband and two children, both under the age of 10.

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She was the epitome of kindness. She was sunshine in human form. Even in the chemo ward, she lifted the spirits of everyone around her, helping make those long, frightening sessions a little less scary.

Last year, she raised R12 150. This year, she has already reached R18 250, working steadily towards a long-term goal of R100 000. KZN regional manager for CHOC, Angie Govender, said the organisation hopes to raise R500 000 at this year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile.

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