Categories: News

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

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.

Newsletter

Stay Informed • Cape Town

Get breaking news, events, and local stories delivered to your inbox daily. All the news that matters in under 5 minutes.

Join 10,000+ readers
No spam, unsubscribe anytime

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.

Zola Naidoo

Recent Posts

Forging a Path to Enhanced Executive Oversight

South Africa is making big changes to keep a close eye on its top leaders!…

1 day ago

Cape Town’s Unmissable Weekend of Sporting Action

Cape Town is bursting with sports action from December 5th to 7th, 2025! You can…

1 day ago

South Africa Shines on the Global Cheese Stage

South African cheesemakers dazzled at the 2025 World Cheese Awards in Switzerland! They won many…

1 day ago

Renewing the Mozambique-South Africa Partnership: Highlights from the 4th Bi-National Commission

Mozambique and South Africa just held their 4th big meeting, the BiNational Commission, in Maputo.…

1 day ago

Deepening South Africa-Mozambique Ties: Progress and Prospects from the Fourth Bi-National Commission

South Africa and Mozambique are like old friends, working together to make things better. They…

1 day ago

South Africa’s Water Crisis: A Call for Reform and Accountability

South Africa's water system is a mess! Almost half of its drinking water isn't safe,…

1 day ago