Andromachi, known as Machi was born in Athens on 7th April 1949.  She was 68 years old when she passed away from Ovarian Cancer within 6 weeks after being diagnosed.

She was a Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother.  She was a pillar of strength and role model.  I don't think I have ever come across someone so hardworking, dedicated and loved, like my mom.  She never gave up, no matter how hard things may have been for her.  

Having to immigrate from Greece to South Africa in 1972, she entered into a country that she knew nothing about, couldn't speak the language and leaving her entire family behind.  Yet, she supported her husband and together, 46 years later, made a life for herself and her family here in Johannesburg.  A more dedicated and caring mom I could not have asked for.  She supported her family in every business that they chose to venture on, some good, some bad, but never gave up, fighting to survive, no matter how hard the struggle was.

I guess you could say this is why she was so very brave, right to her very last day on earth, she never showed her pain, always kept her smile and said... "Evy, don't stress!" These were her last real words to me before passing on and these words I will never forget.  

This is one of the main reasons for initiating this project, to create  awareness. I know my mom would have wanted  me to help change someone else's life from this life threatening disease that is eating away at so many loved ones..... and neglecting it and its symptoms, creates more heart ache for those left behind.

Andromachi is a female name that originates from the ancient years.  In fact, the ancient Greek name Andromachi is a compound word and derives from the words "Machi" which means battle and "andros" which means "of a man".

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Therefore, Andromachi means the battle, or the fight of a man.  

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On the 4th February 2018, World Cancer Day, I lost my beloved Mother, Andromachi (Machi) at the age of 68, to Ovarian Cancer.  This was the most difficult, challenging and heart-breaking experience I have ever had to go through.  She fell ill on the 27th December 2017 and I attempted to admit her to a well-known Private Clinic at around 23H00 that evening.  Due to the fact that my mom did not have a Medical Aid at the time, we were told by the Clinic in question that we had to pay a cash deposit in the sum of R390’000.00 in order for them to admit my Mother.

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We did not have this money and the only option I had was to admit her into the closest state-run hospital and carry the costs of all her medical and wound care needs on my own.

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After undergoing numerous tests, she was officially diagnosed with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer on 18th January 2018.  The Cancer had metastasized and as a result of her current state of health, there was no cure or treatment for her.  I was told to take her home, give her palliative care and get her affairs in order.  Needless to say, I was beyond shocked when my beautiful Mom passed away in my arms, two weeks later.

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I have a deep yearning inside of me to tell as many people as I can about my journey and my Mothers “six weeks to live” and to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms that lead to Cancer.  Awareness to cancer and treatment is my goal!

Evy Michalopoulos

Founder & CEO

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