For almost three years, Lisa Koppel carried something personal while continuing to protect the people she loved most.
The 41-year-old was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in November 2023. Her family has now revealed her diagnosis following her death, not to invite sympathy, but to continue something Koppel herself hoped to do one day: raise awareness about the disease and the importance of early detection.
Koppel, the wife of musician, radio and television personality Danny K, chose to keep her illness private throughout her treatment.
According to reports, she died at the weekend. She initially pursued a career in modelling before studying law. She obtained an LLB degree from the University of South Africa (Unisa) and was admitted as an advocate of the High Court in 2010.
At the time of her death, she was working as an associate at Billy Gundelfinger Attorneys, according to her LinkedIn profile.
Danny K and Lisa Koppel were married in Somerset West in the Western Cape in 2012. The couple shared three children.
According to her family, she never wanted pity or attention. Her priority was protecting her three children and allowing them to hold on to their happiness and innocence for as long as possible.
"Even through the hardest moments, she remained gentle, humble and remarkably brave," the family said in a statement.
Koppel and her family searched for treatment in South Africa and abroad, pursuing every available opportunity in the hope of finding a way forward. Despite their efforts, she could not be saved.
Danny K also shared the news publicly, describing Koppel as "the wife I worshipped" and saying their three children had lost "an extraordinary mother".
The family expressed its gratitude to the doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals who cared for Koppel throughout her illness, both locally and internationally.
Now, they are sharing what she went through for a reason.
The family is now sharing Koppel's diagnosis for one important reason: awareness. Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and has traditionally been associated with older adults, but rates among younger adults have been rising.
Researchers have not identified reason for the increase, although factors including family history, obesity, physical inactivity, diet, smoking and alcohol can influence risk.
Screening recommendations have also shifted in response to the changing picture.
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), a non-profit leader in the fight against cancer, recommends that people at average risk begin early detection and screening by means of a colonoscopy, starting at age 50 and repeated every 10 years depending on the individual’s risk factors.
Persistent symptoms, however, should not be dismissed because of age and should be discussed with a doctor.
In statement on Tuesday, CANSA shared their deepest condolences to the Koppel and Gundelfinger families.
"Our thoughts are with her loved ones as they grieve the loss of a special wife, mother and daughter. May the cherished memories of Lisa bring comfort and strength to her family and friends during this difficult time.
"Lisa’s passing is also a reminder of the importance of colorectal cancer awareness. Colorectal cancer is among the top cancers affecting both men and women in South Africa. Early detection can make a significant difference, as colorectal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages," CANSA said.
CANSA also stressed that knowing the warning signs, being aware of family history and speaking to a healthcare professional about symptoms rather than assuming colorectal cancer cannot affect you because of your age.
The Koppel and Gundelfinger families added that they had hoped that one day she would use her own experience to raise awareness and encourage others to take the disease seriously. She never got that opportunity. Her family has now decided to carry that purpose forward in her name.
They said that they have been left grieving the loss of a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. They have asked for prayers, compassion and privacy as they navigate what they describe as a devastating loss.
For those who knew Koppel, however, her story will not be reduced to the illness she fought.
Her family says she will be remembered for the way she lived and loved, with kindness, humility, courage and an unwavering devotion to the people who mattered most.
A media liaison said that the family is observing a period of mourning and has asked for privacy and time during this difficult period, and that they are not in a position to provide further comment at this stage and ask for understanding as they take this time to grieve.
bernelee.vollmer@nationalmg.co.za