Turning the Impossible into Impact
In July 2023, African Synergy Health (ASH) launched its very first Surgical Marathon — a bold and hope-filled initiative born from the vision of our founder, Dr Viola Morolo, to see zero patients on elective surgical waiting lists in Africa. What started as an audacious dream soon became a historic reality.
Held from 17 to 23 July 2023 in Gauteng, the marathon commemorated 67 years of service by Nelson Mandela with 67 successful surgeries — each one a powerful act of healing and dignity. Procedures were performed across leading medical institutions: Steve Biko Academic Hospital, George Mukhari Academic Hospital, The Urology Hospital, and Cure Day Hospitals.
While the focus was primarily on urological surgeries, the marathon also included select general surgeries, laying the groundwork for ASH’s vision to expand into other disciplines over time.
ASH was honoured to work with key partners including the Gauteng Department of Health, Boston Scientific, Marcus Medical, and several other medical and technology companies. A dedicated team of professionals — led by Dr Viola Morolo, Dr Marissa Conradie, Dr Guy Gaudji, and Prof. Zach Koto — joined hands with surgical teams across hospitals to bring this vision to life.
Patients were selected based on the urgency and length of their waiting periods, with each surgery serving as a vital milestone toward ending surgical backlog. Media coverage and a celebratory Gala Dinner amplified the success of the week, acknowledging every contributor and partner who made the initiative possible.
What began as a seemingly impossible idea is now one of Africa’s most promising health care movements. Through collaboration, resilience, and a united mission, the ASH team has proven that access to quality surgical care can — and must — be a right, not a privilege.
This was not just the beginning of a campaign; it was the start of a movement.
