Darren Scott Cancer Treatment Fundraiser Raises Over R126,000

Image credits: Darren Scott/ Facebook

Radio icon Darren Scott has been battling melanoma for over 38 years, and his family and friends have launched a BackaBuddy campaign to support his cancer treatment. The campaign, initiated by his ex-wife Sarah-Kate Accetta, has already raised R126,415 towards its R960,000 goal, with contributions from 86 donors. Scott was first diagnosed with melanoma in 1986 and has since faced multiple recurrences of this aggressive skin cancer. He has undergone numerous surgeries, including the removal of parts of his lung, chin, and lymph nodes, as well as chemotherapy and radiation.

Scott's current employers, HOT 102.7FM, have expressed their support for the veteran radio personality, stating that they have assisted him financially, contributing towards the costs of the Keytruda immunotherapy, hospitalisations, and support therapy, all whilst on full pay. The station's Managing Director, Lloyd Madurai, said that Scott remains a South African broadcast icon, and it was with great sadness that they learned the cancer had spread. Madurai added that the station will continue to provide assistance for Scott as he tackles the disease, and that Scott will remain on air, with his HOT 102.7FM family praying for his wellbeing and speedy recovery.

Scott's battle with melanoma has been a long and challenging one, with multiple instances of the cancer returning over the years. He has previously refused chemotherapy and radiation treatment, opting instead to rely on his immune system. However, in 2022, he relocated to the United States, where he had medical aid coverage and was receiving treatment. Upon his return to South Africa in early 2024, he was no longer covered and is currently in an exclusionary waiting period. The BackaBuddy campaign is aimed at assisting Scott with the costs related to his ongoing cancer treatment, and his family and friends are grateful for the support and donations received so far.

The campaign has sparked an outpouring of support from Scott's fans and colleagues, with many taking to social media to express their well-wishes and donate to the cause. Scott's ex-wife, Sarah-Kate Accetta, has thanked everyone for their support, saying that she knows Scott might be furious that his friend and she even made the page, because he is so used to being the one who is helping others. She has asked for prayers for Scott, saying that they serve a mighty God who has proven many miracles in her life, and they are believing for full healing in Scott's body. The campaign is still ongoing, and donations can be made through the BackaBuddy website.

In terms of the treatment options available to Scott, his team has explored various avenues, including immunotherapy. The Keytruda immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in treating certain types of cancer, including melanoma. Scott's doctors have recommended this course of treatment, and the BackaBuddy campaign is helping to cover the costs associated with it. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, Scott's family and friends remain hopeful that he will receive the treatment he needs to overcome this challenging time, and they are grateful for the support and generosity of the public.