Written by Lyn Croote, CEO Lambano Sanctuary

Since opening in 2001 in response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic—initially caring for orphaned and vulnerable HIV-positive children—we have grown significantly. We went on to establish a children’s medical and palliative care facility, supporting those with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses, and providing home-based care after their discharge.

Now, we are in the process of opening a 30-bed private children’s sub-acute facility, which will provide continued medical care and rehabilitation.

This important step will also contribute to the long-term sustainability of our NGO.

As I reflect on the last 25 years, I can see the footprints of the Lord walking with us through this journey, helping us to care for our 30 permanent foster children whom we have walked a long journey with.

From the tragedy of them being orphaned with a life-limiting and life-threatening illness, to them being young adults now focusing on their journey onwards which we hope and pray will be one filled with hope, faith and resilience, to cope in the world we find ourselves in. We have poured out our energy and our lives for all of the children who have come across our paths, and we hope to continue this journey remembering the 7 values of Lambano: Hope, Humanity, Holistic Care, Compassionate Care, Teamwork, Excellence, Accountability. 

This May, as we celebrate our birthday, help us honour the hands that care with compassion every day. For just R425, you can sponsor a pair of scrubs for one of our 16 dedicated nurses. Our goal is to provide each nurse with three new sets—join us in reaching this meaningful milestone. Donate Scrubs Here

International Nurses Day is Observed annually on 12 May. It holds profound significance in South Africa as a tribute to the "backbone" of the national healthcare system.

Before the sun rises, before most of the world stirs, she is already awake. At 4:00 am, the alarm sounds. It is not just the start of a day—it is the beginning of a calling.

By 5:00 am, she steps out into the world, into the dim light, ready for the journey to work. Public transport is not always kind. It is crowded, unpredictable, tiring. And yet, she shows up. Every time.

By 6:30 am, she arrives—not just present, but ready. At 7:00 am, the handover begins. from our night-shift to day-shift staff.

After a shared time of prayer and worship, she moves from bed to bed, child to child. Administering medication. Feeding. Changing. Comforting. Stimulating. Watching closely. Listening carefully. Responding not only to what is said, but to what is felt. Some days bring heartbreak.

On those days, she may hold a child for the last time. She may carry the weight of loss in her chest, the kind that does not simply disappear when the moment passes. And yet—somehow—she finds the strength to continue. Because in the next bed, another child still needs her. Still depends on her. Still deserves her full presence, her full care, her full heart.

The day ends as she prepares to show up again tomorrow, with the same love, and compassionate care.

This May, as we celebrate our birthday, help us honour the hands that care with compassion every day. For just R425, you can sponsor a pair of scrubs for one of our 16 dedicated nurses. Our goal is to provide each nurse with three new sets—join us in reaching this meaningful milestone. Donate Scrubs Here