A Story of Courage, Hope, and Activism: The Jenna Lowe Story

by
1 min read
courage activism Cape Town

The documentary Get Me to 21: The Jenna Lowe Story tells the emotional journey of Jenna Lowe, an inspiring activist who was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH). This rare and life-threatening disease did not stop Jenna from raising awareness and initiating the iconic #GetMeTo21 social media campaign in 2014.

The Documentary

The 90-minute documentary, set to air on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) on Saturday, August 12 at 8:30 pm, pieces together exclusive footage and heartfelt interviews with Jenna’s friends, medical professionals, and family, including her mother Gabi Lowe. Gabi authored the acclaimed memoir Get Me to 21, which intimately documented Jenna’s brave battle against pulmonary hypertension.

A Testament to Jenna’s Indomitable Spirit

More than a story of illness, Get Me to 21 is a testament to Jenna’s indomitable spirit, unveiling the Lowe family’s unwavering resilience and strength as they faced every parent’s worst nightmare. The documentary reveals how the family had to grapple with the medical community’s initial failure to diagnose Jenna’s condition and a subsequent lack of treatment options, but they responded with unparalleled determination.

Jenna’s Journey

Despite her challenges, Jenna’s articulate, daring, and captivating spirit created an international impact and earned her campaign prominence. Confined to a wheelchair and sustained by oxygen, Jenna persevered, ultimately achieving straight A grades and inspiring others with her story of courage and hope.

Jenna’s Legacy and Impact

In memory of Jenna, her family established the Jenna Lowe Trust, a non-profit organization, which played a crucial role in creating the Jenna Lowe PH Clinic at Groote Schuur. The clinic now supports approximately 600 pulmonary hypertension patients, providing early diagnosis and improving the quality of life for many. Jenna’s advocacy spurred greater engagement from the medical community to enhance PH care and access to treatments.

Directed by Diana Lucas and edited by Mary Berry, Get Me to 21: The Jenna Lowe Story is set to premiere on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) on August 12 at 8:30 pm. Jenna’s legacy of bravery and hope continues to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families. More information regarding the Jenna Lowe Trust can be found here. The documentary is a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration and an insight into the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

Tags:

You might be interested in

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

b r
Previous Story

Strengthening Global Partnerships: South Africa to Host BRICS Inward Buying and Investment Missions

electric buses sustainable transportation Cape Town
Next Story

Cape Town’s Golden Arrow Bus Service Plans to Go Electric

Latest from Blog

transgender rights inclusivity

Virgin Active Gym’s Inclusive Policy Promotes Transgender Rights

Virgin Active Gym has implemented an inclusive policy that allows transgender individuals to use bathrooms corresponding with their legally recognized gender. This policy emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and respect for individual identities, but has also sparked debate around privacy and safety concerns on social media. Virgin Active has reaffirmed their support for individuals who have completed their transition process and addressed safety concerns, highlighting the corporate challenge of balancing inclusivity and safety while promoting a broader societal dialogue on gender identity and inclusivity.

south africa democracy

Triumph Over Tyranny: Marking Three Decades of Democracy in South Africa

April 27, 1994, marked the end of apartheid and the start of democracy in South Africa. This date is significant in South African history because it led to the first democratic elections and the election of Nelson Mandela as the first democratically elected president. The heroic men and women who led the struggle for justice, peace, and freedom are remembered, and the progress made in economic empowerment, education, healthcare, social support, and basic services is celebrated. South Africa stands as a beacon of hope for countries worldwide that yearn for social justice, peace, and a fair world order.

child abuse klapmuts

Klapmuts’s Nightmare: The Unforeseen Tragedy that Shook a Peaceful Township

In Klapmuts, South Africa, a little boy was subjected to a horrific act of aggression by three men who accused him of stealing R600. The abuse was captured on video and posted on social media, leaving the community deeply shaken and exposing the horrifying reality of child abuse. The incident serves as a reminder of our shared duty to safeguard society’s most vulnerable members and ensure they are raised in safe and nurturing environments. The peaceful township was shattered by this unforeseen tragedy, reminding us all to guard against such brutality.

mineral theft saps

SAPS’ Bold Operation: Recovering Stolen Minerals from Johannesburg Warehouse

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has formed a special task force to fight mineral theft in the country. Recently, they recovered stolen minerals worth R15 million from a Johannesburg warehouse, and they continue to investigate and detain suspects to halt illegal activities in the mining sector. The SAPS task team’s dedication and hard work serve as an example of what law enforcement can achieve with integrity and resolve.

international firefighters day cape town firefighters

Honoring the Heroes of Cape Town: International Firefighters Day

Cape Town’s firefighters have faced a challenging summer season with a significant increase in vegetation fires and total incidents compared to the previous year. The city supports their firefighting response with aerial support during the summer months, including two helicopters and a spotter plane. As International Firefighters Day approaches, it’s essential to honor the dedication and bravery of Cape Town’s firefighters, who have persevered through one of their busiest summers yet.