A brighter Christmas: Supporting Sydney and her siblings through grief
At Hot Cares, we strive to provide assistance and hope to those facing life’s toughest challenges. This Christmas season, we were moved by the story of Sydney and her siblings, who are navigating the profound loss of their mother, Samantha Wynne, to stage 4 Glioblastoma.
Samantha was not just a mother; she was a beacon of strength for her children. A single mom, she faced financial struggles head-on, always maintaining a positive outlook despite the difficulties life threw her way. Tragically, she lost her battle with cancer on June 24, 2024, leaving behind three beautiful children: Sydney, Kayden (16), and Kelsey (12).
At only 21 years old, Sydney has taken on the monumental responsibility of caring for her younger siblings while managing her own grief.
As the eldest, she stepped into the role of both mother and primary caregiver during her mother’s illness, a role that demanded immense emotional and physical strength. In addition to looking after her siblings, she juggled her studies in Sports Science and worked temporary jobs to support the family financially.
The emotional toll of caring for a dying parent and now, grieving that loss, is an experience that no one should have to endure alone, especially at such a young age. Sydney’s resilience and bravery shine through her actions, but the weight of the world is heavy on her shoulders.
As the first Christmas without their mother approaches, we recognize the need to provide Sydney and her siblings with not just financial support, but also moments of joy and comfort.
At Hot Cares, we want to make a difference in their lives during this difficult time. We are committing to cover their rent, electricity, fuel, and food for the first three months of the new year, totaling R76,500. This support will provide them with some breathing room as they navigate the challenges ahead.
Additionally, to bring a little light into their lives during the festive season, we are excited to provide each of them with R2,000 vouchers to spoil themselves and create some cherished memories. Furthermore, we are arranging a weekend stay at Gold Reef City for the siblings, offering them an opportunity to bond and find moments of happiness amidst their grief.
Our hope is that this assistance will provide Sydney and her siblings with a sense of relief, allowing them to focus on healing and finding their way forward together. Together, we can help them honor their mother’s legacy of love and resilience by supporting them in building a brighter future.