Together for Zero
ASH Surgical Marathon 2024 Unites Provinces and Pushes Boundaries
In July 2024, African Synergy Health (ASH) delivered a powerful continuation of its mission: zero patients on elective surgical waiting lists. The second annual Surgical Marathon extended its reach to two provinces – Gauteng and the Eastern Cape – proving that collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment can drive health equity forward.
From July 8–12 in the Eastern Cape and July 15–19 in Gauteng, surgical teams across nine hospitals performed an astounding 168 procedures (93 in Eastern Cape, 75 in Gauteng). Urology remained the primary focus, but a major advancement was the introduction of robotic-assisted surgeries, performed by ASH Director, Dr Marissa Conradie.
Hospitals involved included Steve Biko Academic, Dr George Mukhari, Urology Hospital, Frere Hospital, Cecelia Makiwane, Advanced Health, and others. These were supported by a robust network of sponsors such as Marcus Medical, NuAngle, Medtronic, and Boston Scientific, highlighting the strength of public-private synergy.
The opening ceremony at Advanced Health captured ASH’s essence: “coming together under one patient-centered cause.” Government leaders and corporate partners echoed this theme in heartfelt speeches.
The event concluded with a Gala Dinner and Golf Day, where awards were presented to top supporters. Dr Viola Morolo, ASH Founder, reaffirmed the movement’s purpose: “What once felt impossible is now being realized.”
A landmark achievement this year was the signing of a national MOU between ASH and the Department of Health, aligning strategic goals in infrastructure, education, and research.
What began as a dream is now a national force transforming healthcare, one surgery at a time.
