Hot Cares helps brave mom of five fighting cancer

Sheila Taotoe is the kind of woman who holds the world together for everyone else—until the weight becomes too much to carry alone.

At just 32, Sheila is raising five children—two of her own, and three more she took in after her sister passed away. On top of that, she supports her elderly parents and younger siblings, all living together in a small home in Daveyton. But while Sheila quietly takes care of everyone else, she’s been fighting her own private battle—Stage 3 breast cancer.

Sheila receives chemotherapy at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, over 50km away. Every trip costs her R400, and when her treatment is delayed due to stock shortages, the cost can double. She’s already spent thousands out-of-pocket on medication, all while trying to feed her family and keep her children warm, clothed, and in school.

That’s where Hot Cares stepped in.

Thanks to our generous Hot 1027 listeners, we’re covering Sheila’s transport costs—R2,000 per month for the next three months—so she can get to her life-saving treatment without added stress. We’re also contributing R4,000 toward groceries each month, ensuring her family’s basic needs are met. And because we believe in lifting spirits too, we’re gifting each of the five children a R1,000 voucher for a fun, once-off shopping spree.

Sheila has spent her life putting others first. Now, it’s our turn to put her first—and remind her that she’s not alone in this fight.