The Brotherhood | Northlink College Rugby team backs up Axola
Cape Town, 07 September 2025 - In South Africa, rugby has always been a celebration of support. That spirit came alive at the COSACSA Western Cape Regional Ball Games, where the Northlink College rugby team stood behind Axola, turning their game into a platform to help raise awareness.
Axola’s Journey
Diagnosed with severe aplastic anaemia at 18, Axola’s life was turned upside down. For a young man whose world revolved around rugby, the diagnosis forced him to step away from the sport he loved the most. Yet even as the illness tried to sideline him, his passion for the game was still burning. Now, at 21, Axola is captain of Northlink College’s rugby team.
“Having my teammates backing me up means everything. I’ve been on treatment and trying to maintain a good diet, and I would tap into the game now and then to keep fit. Because rugby, to me, is everything, and knowing that my boys stood beside me to support my campaign was really incredible.”
The Brotherhood
To highlight the power of standing together, DHL Rugby Stormers player Seabelo Senatla visited the team, offering them encouragement, guidance, and reminding them of their responsibility to help raise awareness about the need for more committed people to join the stem cell registry.
Reflecting on the moment, Axola said, “I was truly grateful for the support DKMS Africa and Seabelo showed at the tournament. The arm sleeves we wore during the matches lifted the team’s spirit, and in that moment, I felt the brotherhood.”
Coach Anthony’s Reflection
On the sidelines, Northlink College rugby coach, Anthony Adams, shared how grateful he was for the day to have turned out a success: “I want to thank DKMS Africa for your support. With you behind us, there was a positive spirit in so many ways.
Why Stories Like Axola’s Matter
Blood disorders like aplastic anaemia and blood cancers can strike anyone, at any time. For many patients, a stem cell transplant is their only chance at survival. Right now, there are still patients waiting for their potential lifesaver.
REGISTER TO BECOME A POTENTIAL STEM CELL DONOR.
