Uniting Provinces, Restoring Lives
The 2025 ASH Surgical Marathon
In July 2025, African Synergy Health (ASH) once again delivered on its bold promise: to bring South Africa closer to a future with zero patients on elective surgical waiting lists. Under the trailblazing leadership of Dr. Viola Morolo, the third annual ASH Surgical Marathon unfolded across four provinces — Gauteng, North West, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Free State — bringing hope, healing, and transformation.
Marathon Overview
Taking place from 14 July to 28 July 2025, this year’s marathon was the largest to date, spreading across eight hospitals and performing 119 critical surgical procedures. For the first time, robot-assisted surgeries were performed in greater numbers, signaling the beginning of a new era in public healthcare innovation.
Hospitals That Answered the Call
Gauteng: Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Dr. George Mukhari Academic Hospital, Urology Hospital, Cure Day Hospital Medkin
North West: Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital, Life Peglerae Hospital
KwaZulu-Natal: St Aidens Hospital
Free State: Universitas Academic Hospital
Restoring Dignity, One Surgery at a Time
From Gauteng and North West (76 procedures) to KZN and the Free State (43 procedures), lives were changed forever. Three powerful patient testimonials captured by ASH’s media team highlighted the profound impact on individuals and families who had waited months — and sometimes years — for relief.
Opening Ceremony and National Vision
Held on Mandela Day (18 July) at Urology Hospital in Pretoria, the opening ceremony honored Nelson Mandela’s legacy through surgical action. Dr. Viola Morolo, Department of Health representatives, and Urology Hospital leadership reaffirmed a collective commitment to prioritizing patient care.
Pushing the Boundaries
At the closing Gala Dinner and Golf Day, Dr. Morolo issued a challenge: “We must do more. We must multiply the marathons.” She called for smaller marathons throughout the year, strengthened partnerships with the National Department of Health, and a vision to include paid surgeries to expand access.
Unmatched Collaboration
A record number of sponsors and partners came together to fuel the marathon’s success. These included:
Medical & Technology Sponsors: Medtronic, NuAngle, Vertice, Boston Scientific, Obsidian Health, Medhold, CJ Distribution, STORZ, Marcus Medical, Surgical Innovations, K2 Medical, CMR Surgical
Government & Institutional Partners: National and Provincial Departments of Health, Universitas Academic Hospital
Lifestyle & Logistics: Serengeti Estates, Doppio Zero, River Meadow Manor, Freedom Of Movement, Gabler, Event Management Solutions, Professional Linen, Path Care, Boulevard, Sure Medical
Challenges and Vision
Despite the success, some public hospitals lacked adequate funding to fully utilize available theatre space. Still, with 349 surgeries completed since 2023, ASH has built unstoppable momentum. The journey to zero elective surgery waiting lists is well underway — and ASH is the vehicle to drive it.
