Stories

Susan and Dawie Viljoen became part of the FIRE Family back in 2022, and since then, they’ve been a blessing to many—offering support, encouragement, and prayer as dedicated Alongsiders for the FIRE for Life initiative. But their journey started from a place of real struggle. Before discovering FIRE, Dawie was in a very difficult place with his health. He was battling severe Type 2 Diabetes, relying on a whopping 165

We are continually amazed and deeply grateful when we witness the transformations our participants undergo on their FIRE Journey. The changes are often visible: weight loss, revitalized appearances, glowing skin, healthier hair, and wider smiles. But there’s more—underneath the surface, profound mental and emotional healing unfolds. As the body rids itself of toxins from years of unhealthy habits, so too does the mind find relief and clarity. One of our

The Smile Says It All In March 2024, Angelo embarked on the FIRE 40-Day Journey, a decision that marked a turning point in his life. For years, his health had been quietly but steadily eroding his quality of life, until he decided it was time to take action. Angelo is a spirited go-getter, someone who embraces life with enthusiasm. He cherishes long walks and spending joyful moments with his wife

I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in 2013, which was a big shock for me. I was in such a daze that I walked home from the doctor, totally forgetting that I drove there with my car. I had serious health problems for several years, but I still struggled to come to terms with the diagnosis. My doctor prescribed the traditional treatment for diabetes, including a lifestyle change, a

Liz’s FIRE Adventure: “My endocrinologist couldn’t believe his eyes” 2020. The year of the pandemic. Though very mindful of the suffering of others during this time, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the time spent at home, working online (I lecture at a university), and having so much time with my husband and university going, 22 year-old twin guys. I was in a good place – spiritually, psychologically

A new life, a new space, a new me. Yes, that is what the FIRE Diabetes journey enabled me to achieve. But where did it all start? I have been struggling with overweight and fatigue for many years.  My “professional dieting career” started as a teenager when “being thin” means “skeleton thin”.  My relationship with food was one of guilt and torture, never of enjoyment and pleasure. But alas, despite

Watch Manien’s story here: A dear friend of mine told me how excited she was about the FIRE lifestyle programme she was participating in. It significantly changed her physically and mentally.  I knew right there that this was what I needed for the terrible symptoms I was experiencing. Since my childhood I craved sweet things.  Sugar was my go-to comfort food.  I remember “stealing” sugar from the jar in the

Moshe’s story: On FIRE despite a hectic life Moshe is in a demanding top management position. Over the years he neglected his health.  He was gaining weight, became a diabetic and was put on insulin.  His health did not improve.  During Covid, Moshe lost two of his siblings in a short time.  That was his wake-up call.  He realised that as a person with diabetes, he may not survive Covid.

Johan was a hardworking executive in his early fifties, grappling with the demands of his high-stress job. But on a seemingly ordinary day, October 21st, 2022, he found himself at his general practitioner’s office for a routine check-up and a new prescription. Little did he know, this visit would be a wake-up call for his health. At the age of 51, Johan was facing several health concerns. He relied on

A dear friend of mine told me how excited she was about the FIRE lifestyle programme she was participating in. It significantly changed her physically and mentally.  I knew right there that this was what I needed for the terrible symptoms I was experiencing. Since my childhood I craved sweet things.  Sugar was my go-to comfort food.  I remember “stealing” sugar from the jar in the kitchen just to get