I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every single person who signed the petition calling on the Council for Medical Schemes to review the 21-day limit for mental health hospitalisation benefits. Your support has not gone unnoticed.

Through one of the signatories, I was connected with the Legal Manager at the Council of medical schemes —a small but significant breakthrough. While no promises have been made, I am deeply encouraged that someone is willing to listen and engage on this issue.

This is not a victory—yet—but it is progress. It is a step forward in a long journey towards ensuring equitable mental health care. And during Mental Health Awareness Month, this moment feels especially meaningful.

To those who are silently battling mental illness, and to the caregivers who carry so much unseen weight: you are not alone. All I ever wanted was for someone to listen, to show compassion. Today, I feel heard.

Thank you for walking this path with me. Let us continue to advocate—with courage and with hope.