Darren is a softy

Being a teenager is hard enough – the awkwardness that comes with what your body, and hormones, are doing as well as trying to figure out your place in your family, school and society in general.  Add to that the pressures of trying to decide about a future career in the current state the world finds itself in – all of this has got to be daunting!
 
I had the privilege of meeting Gareth that has terminal cancer.  Representing Little Fighters Trust, Gareth and his minder joined me in studio.  The Dis-Chem Foundation donated R75 000.00 to the Trust live on air.  After chatting to Gareth, hearing what he had to say and witnessing his interaction with the team – I can honestly say that the bravery all young cancer patients display is truly inspirational.
 
Together with all the challenges of growing up in our world, now add to that knowing that you have terminal cancer – you would think that the youngster sitting in front of you would have the weight of the world on his shoulders, but not so!
 
Gareth was upbeat and positive with that sparkle in his eyes which all youngsters seem to have….the sparkle of anticipation, a little bit of mischief, an ability to laugh easily and the ability to accept all that life has thrown at him.
 
So often we will moan and wonder that in this world with all its challenges – why do we find children – young children – with these dread diseases.  How, we shout, is this Universe balanced with these kind of injustices?
 
But that’s us –adults!  That’s how we feel. Gareth with his cancer, is just a young teenager wanting to live, love and laugh.