Life has a way of testing us when we least expect it. For Xylon van Eyck, a cancer diagnosis at the age of 26 was a shock that changed his perspective on everything.
But instead of letting the disease define him, he fought back, and now, he’s using his story to inspire others to embrace life with vigor and stay active.
His call to action? To join the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 13 April 2025, an event that not only celebrates fitness but also supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), a cause close to his heart.
“I was 26 years old when I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and it was a total shock to the system,” recalls Xylon.
“Looking back, I kept getting sick every month with flu, bronchitis, and other illnesses, but I never connected the dots. It was only when my GP sent me for an ultrasound—initially looking for an ulcer in my stomach—that they discovered multiple enlarged lymph nodes. Shortly after, I received the diagnosis.”
The road to recovery was long and challenging, but Xylon came out stronger on the other side.
“I don’t want to be quick to offer advice because I believe traumas like cancer are deeply personal, even though the disease is so common.
“All I can do is share my experience and say that coming out on the other side has given me a profound appreciation for life—one where I strive never to take my health for granted.”
Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, Xylon actively encourages his community to join him in living an active life.
He’s been fortunate enough to participate in the first two Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10Ks, an event that is close to his heart for many reasons.
“I’ve been fortunate to participate in the first two races. One of them was shortly after completing Ironman South Africa, and I wasn’t fully recovered. I felt it in my legs, but the personal best (PB) time was worth it! It’s such a fantastic event. We’re lucky to have a wealth of running events in the city, and this is definitely one of the biggest.”
Xylon continues, “From the start, it set itself apart. The coastal scenery is breathtaking, and the flat course makes it an ideal race for anyone chasing a PB.”
For him, the event is not only about pushing personal limits but also about supporting a cause that means so much to him.
“I once heard someone say that sport is the million-dollar drug doctors often don’t prescribe.
“I’d definitely recommend this event to all runners and walkers—not only is it a lot of fun and great for your health, but it also supports an incredible cause, CANSA.”
Leillani Geduld, National Corporate Relations & Sporting Events Manager at CANSA, has witnessed Xylon’s journey firsthand.
“Xylon’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. He doesn’t let anything hold him back—staying active, and continuously pushing his limits.
“Whether it’s taking on Ironman South Africa or racing the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K, Xylon demonstrates that a positive mindset is one of the most powerful tools for overcoming challenges.”
Xylon’s story serves as a reminder to all of us: health is precious, and we should never take it for granted.
Through his active participation in events like the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K, he hopes to inspire others to live life to the fullest and contribute to important causes such as cancer research and patient support.
“The warm welcome that we received from Stillwater Sports, Absa, PUMA, Chery, and other official partners across all cities in 2024 made us feel truly special,” says Geduld.
“A key aspect of our mission is public education. Regular physical activity like participating in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K, combined with routine cancer screenings, is crucial for cancer risk reduction and survival.”
In 2025, CANSA celebrates the 10th anniversary of their CANSA Active brand, which promotes a healthy, active lifestyle to lower cancer risk.
As the official charity partner of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, CANSA encourages all participants to show their support by donating or raising funds for cancer research and awareness.
Xylon’s message is clear: “Never take your health for granted. Keep moving forward.” Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone looking to start their fitness journey, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K is an event that promises not only physical benefits but also an opportunity to support an incredible cause. Xylon is proof that with a positive mindset, anything is possible.”
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder says they are proud to have CANSA as the official charity partner of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES.
“CANSA’S invaluable work in cancer research, education, and patient support makes a profound impact on countless lives. We encourage all participants to show their support by making a donation or using the event as a platform to raise awareness and funds for this vital cause,” says Meyer.
For more information on the race, visit Absa Run Your City Series.
