When a midlife crisis turns into a learner’s lifeline! Dalan Holton’s brave swim to fund a special scholarship at KES has surpassed its goal!
Cape Town, South Africa (16 February 2024) — Dalan Holton’s 50th birthday gift was inspired in many ways. Partly by a midlife crisis, but mostly by what education unlocks and the desire to honour an amazing young man whose legacy lives on in a special scholarship.
Combining all of these notes of inspiration, Dalan decided to push himself to do something most wouldn’t have at the top of their birthday lists—a frosty swim from Robben Island to the mainland (Blouberg) to raise funds for a scholarship at King Edward VII School (KES).
A KES Alumni himself, Dalan hoped that his upcoming 50th would splash hope into the lives of a learner who needed it; with the funds set to fuel the Daniel Lopes Memorial Scholarship.
A special scholarship inspired by an even more special person, the scholarship honours Daniel Lopes, who lost his life at just 12 years old. Daniel is described to have been an excellent student and young man. Now, his legacy is a beam of hope for others. A matter close to home, Dalan had been good friends with Daniel’s father since their days at KES; adding another element of the feels to his brave endeavour.
Just two and a bit days ago, Dalan’s campaign had not yet reached its target, despite the big dive drawing closer by the hour. However, in a massive stroke of goodwill, community members were as inspired by Dalan’s effort as Dalan was inspired by what the scholarship could mean for someone. As such, not only has the fundraising goal of R50 000 been reached—which will cover half the tuition for a financially distressed learner at KES for the duration of their high school career—but the goal has also been surpassed at R64,977.29!
For Dalan, this has certainly made his birthday wish to turn a “seemingly crazy 50-year-old’s midlife crisis into a lifeline for young minds” true, and his community couldn’t be prouder.
Sources: BackaBuddy
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