WALVIS BAY – Coastal businessman and owner of Fli-Africa Travel Services, Colin April, on Monday extended a helping hand to Mellisa Bester, who is in dire need of assistance to undergo life-saving treatment in South Africa.
Last September, Bester (27), who was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma, an aggressive cancer of the lymphatic system, received N$10 000 cash as well as a return ticket to South Africa.
Bester, a pre-primary school teacher, urgently needs stem cell transplant in South Africa to save her life.
However, she does not have a medical aid and urgently needs funds for this operation, which is estimated to be between N$500 000 and N$900 000.
Her family is busy raising funds for this crucial transplant.
Speaking on behalf of Fli-Africa, the company’s services business development manager, Jessica de Klerk, said that as part of the company’s social responsibility they saw it relevant to assist Bester.
A very emotional Bester said the assistance came as a surprise for her, as she was only focussed on raising money without even considering travel expenses or arrangements.
“What Fli-Africa has done is to assist on an area I would not have expected. For me, travelling by road would have cut costs, however, Fli-Africa rescued the situation as, they realised that travelling by road might worsen the situation. I am grateful for this air ticket,” she said.
Mellissa and her family would appreciate donations from Good Samaritans and the public.
Anyone who would like to help save this young woman’s life can make a contribution to the Mellissa Bester Trust Fund.