Nothing could prepare Bettie Bandana for the impact she was about to make. Soon an NPO (246-043 NPO) was found to make even a bigger contribution, not only to cancer patients but also to Bettie’s local community.
Bettie Banana is now more than just a gift box.
Soon she realised that there was also a need for men with cancer as well as children. Bongi Bandana (for men) as well as Billy & Bella (for kids) were created for this same reason. Bettie also joined hands with other local community partners for exciting and uplifting projects. Today Bettie Bandana serves cancer patients, their families and the greater community with practical, emotional and physical support.
Bettie Bandana remains to give a glimpse of hope to people in need.
“THE BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS IN TE WORLD CANNOT BE SEEN OR EVEN TOUCHED – THEY MUST BE FELT WITH THE HEART.”
– HELEN KELLER
I studied Industrial Psychology at the University of the Free State where I met Rheta in 1994. We became roommates and also best friends. Nowadays I have my own practice in Pretoria where I am a Psychometrist, and also an accredited Life Coach (ICF). I focus on leadership development, burnout prevention, career/life changes and life/work balance. I work with individuals as well as corporates and executives. I have a passion for people and also for creativity. I love art and prefers painting with oil on canvas. However, I don’t mind following a variety of methods.
In 2018 I created Bettie Bandana after heat requested her to create images for encouraging quotes which meant a lot for her when she received cancer treatment.
“HE WHO IS NOT COURAGEOUS ENOUGH TO TAKE RISKS WILL ACCOMPLISH NOTHING IN LIFE.”
– MUHAMMED ALI
We all have our ups and downs in this wonderful journey called life! When I was diagnosed in 2016 for the first time with stage 3 breast cancer, I knew that I had to share my journey in the future because I knew that what I am going through cant’t stay with the disease but instead it was something that was given to me to use for a bigger purpose. With my wonderful husband and 4 children (youngest 3 and eldest 10 at the time), an amazing family and friends it would not be possible for me to turn my dreams into plans! So many words, prayers and family and friends help me to start Bettie Bandana. It is wonderful to give something back and leave a smile on someone’s face.
“LIVE AS IF YOU WERE TO DIE TOMORROW; LEARN AS IF YOU WERE TO LIVE FOREVER.”
– MAHATMA GHANDI
I am responsible for developing products that are both practical and inspiring. I use Martie’s illustrations on these products to send out a message to inspire and give hope.
My life’s motto is: “People of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them…they went out and happened to things.”
– Leonardo da Vinci