Cancer survivor shares his inspiring journey ahead of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K

Image: Action Photo

With exercise and a positive mindset playing a vital role in his recovery, cancer survivor Rodney Reynders from Umhlanga Rocks, KZN, is excited to once again take on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K on Sunday, 13 July 2025.

In August 2022, Reynders was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer that had spread to his lungs. He was accepted into a clinical trial for immunotherapy and began treatment in September 2022. At the time of diagnosis, the tumour on his kidney measured 81mm, and there were 24 cancerous spots in his lungs, including one tumour measuring 11mm. Today, his lungs are clear, and the tumour on his kidney has reduced to 45mm.

“Thankfully, my treatment is going well - especially considering I was given just 7 to 15 months to live. That was 2 years and 7 months ago,” says a grateful and upbeat Reynders. “My advice to anyone facing a similar journey is to have faith, stay positive, keep moving if you can, and lean on the support of family and friends."

Having made his debut at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K in 2024, Reynders describes the experience with great enthusiasm: “It’s a brilliant event and an unforgettable experience,” he exclaims. “Running through the streets of Durban, which were so clean and vibrant - hats off to the organisers!”

He adds in closing: “Exercise is not only beneficial for the body but also for the mind. It has played a key role in helping me fight this disease. A cancer diagnosis is life-altering, but with the right treatment, a strong mindset, faith, and the support of loved ones, you can keep moving forward. And if you’re able to, exercise — it truly helps in more ways than you can imagine.”

“Rodney is a true inspiration, and we’re honoured to welcome him back to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K in 2025,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “His strength, positivity, and passion for life perfectly reflect the spirit of this event. It’s stories like his that remind us what running is really all about - resilience, community, and celebrating every step of the journey.”

CHARITY SUPPORT: The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proudly supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as the official charity of the entire series of events. A non-profit leader in the fight against cancer since 1931, CANSA enables research, educates the public and advocates for and supports all people affected by cancer, while leading SA towards a cancer-free society. When entering an Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES event online, runners can show their support by donating towards CANSA.