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Sabelo Gumede marks end of chemotherapy with emotional bell-ringing moment

Actor, comedian and voice-over artist Sabelo Gumede has reached a major milestone in his cancer journey, marking the end of his chemotherapy treatment with an emotional bell-ringing ceremony.

Also see: Comedian Sabelo Gumede appeals for donations to battle stage 3 cancer

Sabelo Gumede’s chemotherapy sessions come to an end

The symbolic moment, often celebrated by cancer patients upon completing treatment, represents resilience, hope, and the strength required to overcome one of life’s toughest battles. For Sabelo, it signalled the end of a long and difficult chapter that saw him face both serious health challenges and financial hardship.

Sabelo took to his social media to share that he won the cancer battle.

 

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A post shared by Ziphozonke Sabelo Gumede (@ishu_sabz)

Internet users shared their excitement in the comment section:

Actor Nyanisi Dzedze said: “Brother! I’m so excited to see you back out in these streets. Thank you for making it through. Sending you so much love. You are highly favoured, and may His favour continue to rest upon you. ”

Actress Masasa Mbangeni said: “You did it! Well done! Here’s to your healing.”

Comedian Thenjiwe said: “Today’s soundtrack: Ding dong, cancer is gone. Stronger. Healthier. Blessed. Congratulations on your victory.”

Battling a rare form of cancer

In 2025, Sabelo revealed that he had been diagnosed with Stage 3 choriocarcinoma, a rare but chemotherapy-responsive form of cancer. The disease had spread through his lymph nodes to several parts of his body, including his neck, abdomen, lungs, spine and diaphragm.

The road to diagnosis was not easy. Sabelo previously shared that it took more than three months of extensive medical testing and over R100,000 in expenses before doctors were able to determine the cause of his illness.

What initially appeared to be a routine health concern eventually escalated into a life-threatening diagnosis that changed the course of his life and career.

Also see: Khaya Dladla strengthens ex fiancé Mercutio Buthelezi amid cancer battle 

A public plea for help

As treatment progressed, Sabelo faced another obstacle: the financial burden of cancer care.

Despite receiving support from his medical aid, the costs associated with treatment, recovery and daily living expenses began to take a toll. Unable to work while undergoing treatment, he launched a crowdfunding campaign and appealed to the public for donations to help cover his medical and living costs.

Earlier this year, the actor shared an emotional video explaining that he had been unable to afford his medical bills and had missed more than a month of chemotherapy because of financial difficulties. At the time, he said he was in the final stretch of treatment and desperately needed assistance to continue.

His appeal touched many South Africans, with fans, fellow entertainers and supporters rallying behind him through donations, prayers and messages of encouragement.

An outpouring of support

Throughout his cancer battle, Sabelo has remained open about his experience, using his platform to raise awareness about the realities of living with cancer.

His honesty resonated with many people who were inspired by his courage and determination. Supporters frequently flooded his social media pages with words of encouragement, celebrating each positive update and standing by him during difficult moments.

Looking ahead with hope

Now, after months of treatment, uncertainty, and perseverance, Sabelo’s bell-ringing moment represents more than the end of chemotherapy — it symbolises hope for the future.

While his recovery journey continues, completing treatment is a significant victory and one worth celebrating. The emotional milestone serves as a reminder of the strength he has shown throughout his battle and the community that helped carry him through it.

Also see: How to check your breasts at home and when to see a doctor

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