At 52, Ruiters was diagnosed with multiple myeloma while training for the Comrades Marathon. Initially misdiagnosed and treated for nephrotic syndrome, she was later told her heart and kidneys were failing. Despite the grim prognosis, including eight months of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, she never gave up.<\/p>\n
After her recovery, she started running again, completing her first 21.1km race in April 2017. Last year, she achieved the challenge of completing 21 x 21.1km races in 12 months. In 2024, she competed in the National Transplant Games and will represent South Africa at the World Transplant Games in Germany in 2025. She has already earned a silver medal at the World Transplant Games in Australia in 2023 for the 3km race walk.<\/p>\n
\u201cI believe staying active played a key role in my recovery,\u201d says Ruiters<\/em><\/strong>. \u201cDealing with cancer is not easy. Anxiety can be overwhelming, but there are ways that can help you to cope. I recommend counseling or therapy if anxiety affects your daily life.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAs a big supporter of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, I see it as a celebration of fitness and community,\u201d she continues. \u201cI\u2019ve been running the series since 2017, and I\u2019m excited for my 8th Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K this year. The live entertainment and spirit of togetherness make it so special.\u201d<\/p>\n Ruiters adds, \u201cFrom experience, I believe physical activity strengthens the immune system, supports cancer management, and helps regulate hormones. Regular exercise keeps the body healthy and at a good weight, which is crucial for overall well-being. If you want a fresh start, try physical activity\u2014it has empowered me to achieve more than I ever thought possible.\u201d<\/p>\n The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proudly supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as its official charity. Participants are given the chance to make a meaningful impact by donating online or running to raise funds and awareness for the cause.<\/p>\n \u201cMelda\u2019s strength and commitment to staying healthy and active is truly inspiring,\u201d says Leillani Geduld, National Corporate Relations & Sporting Events Manager at CANSA<\/em><\/strong>. \u201cHer journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the vital role physical activity plays in recovery and overall well-being. She is an incredible role model for anyone facing adversity and a true advocate for leading a healthy, active life.\u201d<\/p>\n 2025 marks CANSA\u2019s second year as the official charity partner of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES.<\/p>\n \u201cWe were warmly embraced by Stillwater Sports, Absa, PUMA, Chery, and all the official partners during our first year in 2024,\u201d says Geduld. \u201cThis made us feel truly valued. One of the key goals of CANSA is public education. We offer free cancer screenings at Race Pack Collection and provide essential information on the support services available to cancer patients and their families. Regular physical activity, like taking part in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, alongside regular screenings, plays an important role in reducing cancer risks and improving survival.\u201d<\/p>\n The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025\u2014the same year CANSA marks a decade of its CANSA Active brand, dedicated to promoting a healthy, active lifestyle to help reduce cancer risk.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re excited to enhance our education and awareness campaigns at this year\u2019s race pack collection days,\u201d adds Geduld. \u201cWe\u2019re also inviting participants to become CANSA Active Champions and raise additional funds through the GivenGain online platform. This year promises to be even more exciting, highlighting a partnership we truly value with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES and its partners.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe are proud to have CANSA as the official charity partner of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES,\u201d says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder<\/em><\/strong>. \u201cThe fantastic work CANSA does in cancer research, education, and supporting patients is invaluable. We encourage all runners to show their support by making a donation or helping raise awareness for this crucial cause. CANSA representatives will also be available at Race Pack Collection, so if any entrants have concerns about their health, be sure to stop by their stand \u2013 they\u2019re there to help.\u201d<\/p>\n How to support CANSA<\/u><\/strong>: <\/strong>Runners and walkers participating in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K<\/strong> can support CANSA by donating during online registration or starting their own fundraising project via the following link: https:\/\/www.givengain.com\/event\/absa-run-your-city-series-2025<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n EVENT DATES<\/u><\/strong>: Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/td>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Temporary License: R60.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n <\/td>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Absa Entrant Gifts<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K Finisher\u2019s Medal<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Race Number with Timing Chip<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Impressive Sponsor Activations<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Lively Route Entertainment Points<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 2 x Refreshment Stations on Route<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tog Bag Drop and Collect Service<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>
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\n Date:<\/td>\n Sunday 11 May 2025<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Start Time:<\/td>\n 09:00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Start Venue:<\/td>\n Marine Drive, Milnerton<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Finish Venue:<\/td>\n Lower Long Street opposite Absa Building<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Entry Fee:<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Licensed Runner: R255.00<\/p>\n \n Entry Includes:<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES Event Performance T-shirt<\/p>\n