In an extraordinary display of loyalty and determination, Nickey Seger is embarking on a monumental 30-day running challenge to raise R500,000 for her dear friend, Dave Spurgeon, who is courageously battling throat cancer without the safety net of medical aid. Seger, alongside her partner Grant Clack, is running 21.6 kilometers daily, a feat totaling an astonishing 650 kilometers, all to help Dave access urgent chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
A Bond Forged in Kindness
Nickey Seger’s deep commitment to her friend Dave stems from a bond formed just 18 months ago. Despite their relatively short friendship, Dave has proven to be a remarkably kind, compassionate, and supportive figure in Nickey’s life. He has a history of offering guidance and encouragement to those around him, often taking people under his wing. This generosity has continued even as Dave faces his own significant hardships, including losing his medical aid after being retrenched during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was this very kindness, juxtaposed with the devastating news of his cancer diagnosis in July, that compelled Nickey to act. “When I heard Dave had throat cancer and no medical aid, my heart just sank. This is the reality for so many South Africans. I just felt the need to make a difference and help him in the best way I know how,” Nickey shared.
The Grueling 650km Challenge
To translate her desire to help into tangible action, Nickey and Grant launched the “Hope Powers Dave” campaign on the BackaBuddy platform. Their ambitious fundraising goal of R500,000 aims to cover the essential and urgent medical expenses for Dave’s treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation. To amplify awareness and inspire donations, they devised a physically demanding challenge: running 21.6 kilometers every single day for 30 consecutive days. This immense undertaking began on August 25th, 2025, which also marked Dave Spurgeon’s 65th birthday. The couple laces up twice daily, splitting the distance to manage the demanding schedule. As of September 12th, 2025, with 16 days of the challenge completed, they have already covered an impressive 345.6 kilometers, signifying they are more than halfway to their 650km target.
Confronting the Financial Realities of Cancer Care
Dave Spurgeon’s situation tragically highlights the precarious position many South Africans find themselves in when faced with serious illness without medical cover. The costs associated with cancer treatment in South Africa are substantial, with prices for treatment ranging from R10,000 to R1 million per patient annually, depending on the cancer type and treatment required. Advanced treatments, specialized drugs, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can quickly escalate to hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of rands. Without medical aid, patients often face long waiting periods within the public healthcare system, a delay that can be critical when battling aggressive diseases like cancer. A recent surgical procedure to alleviate a blockage in Dave’s throat provided temporary relief, allowing him to consume liquids again, but his urgent treatment remains dependent on securing sufficient funds.
Progress, Hope, and Community Support
The “Hope Powers Dave” campaign has garnered attention, with messages of encouragement pouring in from friends and the wider community. As of September 12th, the campaign had attracted 33 donors, raising R31,636 towards its ambitious R500,000 goal. While the fundraising is still ongoing, the impact of Nickey and Grant’s efforts extends beyond the financial. Dave Spurgeon himself expressed his deep gratitude, stating, “As a non-runner, I’m humbled. Your running has brought awareness to the campaign and given me courage to keep fighting”. Nickey emphasizes that every step taken is a reminder of why they are doing this, drawing motivation from Dave’s own struggle. This initiative serves as a powerful testament to the impact of friendship and collective action, making a huge difference in the lives of people facing overwhelming odds. Their story is quickly becoming a trending topic, showcasing the power of people coming together in a time of need.
A Call for Continued Support
With 14 days of running remaining and a significant portion of the R500,000 target yet to be met, the urgency for continued support is clear. Nickey Seger and Grant Clack’s incredible dedication, running through all weather conditions and personal fatigue, highlights their unwavering commitment to their friend. Their effort underscores the vital importance of community support and the profound difference that even a small contribution can make. The “Hope Powers Dave” campaign continues to accept donations, offering a lifeline to Dave Spurgeon and a beacon of hope in his fight against cancer. This news serves as an inspiration, reminding us all that in times of great challenge, friendship and a shared commitment can indeed help people make a difference in their field or interest.
