"We are sharing Lisa's diagnosis now for one important reason: awareness."
Those words, released by the Koppel and Gundelfinger families after the death of Lisa Koppel, have transformed a deeply personal loss into a message that could save lives.
Lisa, the wife of award-winning South African musician Danny K, died on August 9 at the age of 41 after a private battle with colorectal cancer that lasted nearly three years.
Until now, very few people outside her closest circle knew that she was ill. Her family said that was exactly how she wanted it.
Rather than allowing cancer to define her, Lisa chose to protect her children from the weight of her diagnosis while searching tirelessly for treatment.
Now her loved ones are honouring a wish she never had the chance to fulfil by encouraging others to recognise the warning signs of a disease that is affecting younger people in growing numbers.
A woman of many chapters
Born Lisa Gundelfinger, she grew up in Johannesburg in a family well known in legal circles. Her father, Billy Gundelfinger, is one of South Africa's leading criminal defence and divorce attorneys. Inspired by the work that she saw growing up, Lisa eventually chose the legal profession herself.
Before stepping into law, she worked as a fashion model. She later completed a Bachelor of Laws degree through the University of South Africa before being admitted as an advocate of the High Court in 2010. After several years in practice, she joined her father's law firm, where she specialised in family and criminal law.
Beyond the courtroom, she also ventured into business and was involved with the children's footwear brand Running Bear Moccasins.
In 2012, she married Danny K in Somerset West. While her husband remained one of South Africa's most recognisable entertainers, the couple intentionally kept their family life away from public attention.
Together they raised three children who remained at the centre of Lisa's world.
A battle fought in silence
Lisa was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in November 2023. Her family revealed that from the day that she received the diagnosis, she approached every stage of treatment with determination.
"From that moment, she fought with extraordinary strength and determination. Together with her family, she searched for hope in South Africa and around the world, pursuing every treatment and every opportunity available to her. Tragically, despite everything, she could not be saved."
The family thanked every doctor, nurse and healthcare professional who cared for Lisa throughout her journey both in South Africa and overseas.
Despite the physical and emotional demands of treatment, Lisa made a deliberate decision not to tell the public about her illness.
"She never wanted pity, attention or sympathy. Above all, she wanted to protect her children and preserve their happiness and innocence for as long as possible."
Her family said that even during the most difficult moments she remained kind, humble and courageous. Those closest to her drew strength from the way she carried herself through unimaginable challenges.
Turning grief into awareness
It was only after Lisa's passing that her family felt ready to reveal her diagnosis.
"The family is sharing Lisa's diagnosis now for one important reason: awareness."
For years, colorectal cancer was regarded as a disease that mainly affected older adults. Screening often began at age 50. Today that picture is changing as more younger adults receive the diagnosis.
International guidelines now recommend routine screening from the age of 45 for people at average risk, while anyone experiencing persistent symptoms should speak to a doctor regardless of age.
The family said Lisa hoped that one day she would use her own experience to educate others about the disease.
"She never got that opportunity. Her family will now carry that purpose forward in her name."
The signs that should never be ignored
Dr Mpho Maano Ramabulana, a surgeon based in Gauteng, said awareness remains one of the most powerful tools in the fight against colorectal cancer because early diagnosis dramatically improves survival.
"We've observed a 90% survival rate in people who are diagnosed at an early stage, highlighting the immense potential of regular screenings to turn the tide in this battle."
He said warning signs can include ongoing changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea or constipation, rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain or cramping and anaemia without an obvious cause.
Risk factors vary from person to person.
"Modifiable risk factors like obesity and type 2 diabetes play a significant role."
He added that people living with inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, face a greater risk and should discuss regular screening with their healthcare providers.
Why screening matters
One of the most effective screening tools is a colonoscopy.
"A colonoscopy is a crucial tool for early detection of colorectal cancer."
The procedure allows doctors to examine the inside of the colon using a camera attached to a flexible tube while the patient is under sedation. Polyps that could later become cancerous can often be removed during the examination.
Other screening methods include stool-based tests and virtual colonoscopy, although any abnormal findings may still require a traditional colonoscopy.
While no single action can prevent colorectal cancer, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a diet rich in fibre, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and reducing excessive red meat consumption may help lower the risk.
"By raising awareness and focusing on early detection, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and combat colorectal cancer effectively."
The legacy she leaves behind
For integrative health practitioner Dr Mmatheo Motsisi, Lisa's story is a reminder that a person's legacy is measured by far more than the illness that they faced.
"From a spiritual standpoint, a meaningful legacy is never measured by achievement status or the battles a person fought. It is shaped by the quality of presence they brought into the world."
She believes that people remember the kindness, courage and love someone shared rather than the suffering they endured.
"We remember how they made others feel seen, how they uplifted those around them and how they lived their truth even in seasons of difficulty."
Addressing women, she added: "Your impact is not created by perfection or comparison. It is created by alignment, by living in a way that honours your deepest values."
Speaking honestly with children
Dr Karen Singh, a radiation oncologist, said open conversations can help children cope when a parent is living with cancer.
She encourages families to use the word cancer rather than avoiding it because clear language removes fear created by uncertainty. Children should be invited to ask questions and be included in age-appropriate ways so they feel involved rather than helpless.
She also advises parents to acknowledge emotions, maintain familiar routines, explain physical changes before they happen, and celebrate milestones throughout treatment.
lutho.pasiya@nationalmg.co.za