"Every hurdle we overcome is unforgettable." Dr Kevin Polden

From the early days at Livingstone Hospital to now leading the charge in George, Dr Kevin Polden has been a flame-holder for Project Flamingo. His journey began with a spark ignited by Dr. Lwazi Nongogo in Gqeberha, and it’s grown into a family affair that brings dignity, joy, and hope to every surgery day. With his wife by his side in the theatre and his parents serving food to volunteers, Flamingo surgery days have become a full-circle moment of care, connection and purpose for the Polden family.

Dr Kevin Polden, surgeon at George Hospital & Flamingo Volunteer

What inspired you to get involved with Project Flamingo?

I got involved in Project Flamingo from the beginning days at Livingstone (I cannot remember the year, unfortunately) at Livingstone. Dr Lwazi Nongogo got the entire MO /Registrar team involved as part of his teaching plan. His passion for breast cancer management was electric (Not sure if that is a good/right word!), and it motivated all of us to get involved in any way we can.

What does ‘making a difference’ mean to you in the context of volunteering here?

The opportunity to be a part of a cause like Flamingo is truly a blessing. The joy the pamper packs and info booklet bring to the patient on the day I see them in SOPD, to seeing the patients bond in the ward on admission day, is truly fantastic. It fills the entire theatre complex with joy and hope for a day.

Was there a specific moment or Flamingo story that stuck with you?

I must say that the moment Dr Chanel Changfoot asked if I would take the project over from her when she left GRH was a very special moment. It is an honour to be able to be a part of this, and I cannot limit it to one or two events, though. Every list is special, and every hurdle that we overcome with the help of Flamingo is unforgettable.

How does being part of this mission impact you professionally or personally?

Personally, it has meant I get to spend more time with my family. Our lives can so easily be consumed by our work. I love that my wife is involved as my surgical assistant on theatre days. My parents are involved as part of the food committee at Flamingo these days too, so I see all of them despite my busy schedule.

Dr. Kevin Polden and his wife, Dr. Marlise de Jager

In one word, how would you describe the team spirit on surgery day? Why that word?

Electric (There is a pulse of enthusiasm and hope)

What has volunteering here taught you about healthcare in South Africa? I

I believe that we can make a difference and help despite our circumstances. The restrictions we all face in the public healthcare system can be overcome if we put our minds to it and if we all help. (Even if it is considered a small thing.)

If you could change one thing about the public perception of breast cancer care, what would it be?

It is a condition that, in many cases, can be treated successfully. The public needs to understand that it is a team effort, and the family and other support structures are just as valuable as the medical side of things.

What gives you hope in the face of the challenges we see in the public healthcare system?

That despite the setbacks we are still able to help our patients and that we continue to find ways to serve

🔥 Quick Fire Questions:

Tea or coffee on surgery day? Coffee

Best snack between cases? Nina's Snack platters (Anything on it)

What’s always in your pocket? Flamingo scrub cap in case of emergency, theatre case

One song that sums up the Flamingo vibe? Simply the best by Tina Turner