At just 21 years old, Asanele Ncede from Mdantsane Corps in the Eastern Cape Division has already lived through a story that reveals what it means to cling to courage when life takes an unexpected turn. Her journey is a tender reminder that even in times of hardship, hope still rises and strength is found in surrendering fully to God.
I am a young lady with a deep passion for education and sports, particularly netball. Throughout my life, I have been actively involved in playing netball both at school and university levels. My love for the sport has not only shaped my personality but has also taught me valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
In 2023, I pursued my passion for education further by studying towards a Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice, which was not my first choice, at Nelson Mandela University. Unfortunately, due to health challenges, I was unable to complete my studies.
my life took a drastic turn …
In December 2024, my life took a drastic turn when I was diagnosed with cancer. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, the cancer did not respond well to treatment, and the only viable option left was to undergo an amputation of my leg. This news left me devastated, not only because of the physical challenges it presented but also due to the emotional toll it took on my self-confidence and my ability to participate in netball, which has been such a significant part of my life. The thought of adapting to a new reality without my leg was overwhelming, and I struggled to come to terms with the potential impact on my future aspirations.
My church embraced me …
From the moment I received the diagnosis, I have been surrounded by a chorus of love and support that turned what could have been a lonely battle into a shared triumph. My church embraced me in prayer, giving me hope and reassurance, while my doctor and the entire team of nurses in the oncology and orthopaedic wards tended to me with skill, compassion, and gentle humour that lifted my mood even on the toughest chemotherapy days. Their encouragement never allowed me to feel isolated, constantly reminding me that I was part of a caring community.
My family stood beside me at every appointment, holding my hand through sleepless nights and celebrating each small victory. Friends visited, called, and sent messages that filled my heart with warmth. Countless strangers, from kind-spoken hospital volunteers to fellow patients who shared words of courage, offered unexpected acts of generosity that restored my confidence and inspired me to persevere despite the amputation. The collective prayers, hugs, and smiles kept me going.
news finally arrived that I am cancer free
On 22 September 2025, when the news finally arrived that I am cancer free, I fell to my knees in gratitude, thanking God for granting me a second chance at life. I am also thankful for each person, pastors, physicians, nurses, relatives, friends, and every compassionate stranger, who walked this path with me.
My return to church began on a Sunday when I listened to a powerful sermon that spoke directly to my spirit, painting Jesus as the living, loving Saviour who called me personally to surrender. In that moment, I opened my heart, declaring Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour, and a fire ignited within me to walk every path the church set before me, from Good Friday play rehearsals to worship nights and speaking in front of people.
Daily prayer became my lifeline, the Bible my compass, and God’s Word my strength for the journey ahead. It required prayer, obedience to God’s call above personal comfort, perseverance, and the discipline to wear the uniform with dignity.
I felt peace and relief wash over me.
When I finally stood enrolled as a Senior Soldier, I felt peace and relief wash over me. This step, a symbol of commitment and belonging, filled me with honour and a sense of responsibility. Accepting God’s call meant embracing it wholeheartedly, trusting that His grace would carry me through whatever lay ahead.
I now stand as a testament that when we truly accept Christ, we also accept His call to serve boldly, to love fiercely, and to march forward no matter the obstacles. With gratitude, I now embrace this new chapter, trusting that the same steadfast love that carried me through darkness will guide every step as I reclaim my life and my dreams.
Hallelujah