Easter Egg Drive

Easter 2025 was a season of joy, kindness, and connection for the Wits Students Surgical Society. In collaboration with the Smile Foundation, we embarked on a journey to spread happiness across our community, handing out close to 1,500 Easter eggs to patients, staff, and learners in hospitals and schools.

It all began with laughter and stories as our Society attached notes of encouragement and joy to each Easter egg. What began as a simple initiative soon evolved into a genuine celebrations of community and compassion.

Our journey began at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, where the Easter bunny hopped into action. The children’s wards came alive with smiles as young patients unwrapped their treats. But the joy didn’t stop there, we continued to the burns unit, the geriatric ward, and even the doctors and nurses joined in the celebration. Each egg carried a message of hope, reminding patients and caregivers alike that they were not forgotten.

From there, our trail led

to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital. The atmosphere was vibrant as laughter and cheer spread from the reception to the top floor. Easter eggs were distributed across every corridor and ward, uniting patients, families, and staff in moments of joy. In those moments, chocolate was no longer just a sweet treat, it became a symbol of kindness, care, and human connection.

Our next stop was the School of Autism, where joy defined the day. Learners and facilitators lit up as they received their Easter surprises. Some smiled quietly, others clapped with excitement and one talented student even gave us a free concert!

The happiness was contagious. The smiles on the faces of our committee and subcommittee members reminded us how joy multiplies when it is shared. At this stop, the Easter egg drive became not just a handout, but a true celebration.

Our final destination was the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, where the last of the eggs were shared with both patients and staff. Gratitude filled the air as the Easter bunny waved goodbye, leaving behind a trail of laughter, sweetness, and warm memories. 

This year’s drive would not have been possible without the dedication of our volunteers, the generosity of our donors, and the partnership of the Smile Foundation. Together, we created moments of happiness that will not be forgotten.

As we reflect on this journey, we are reminded that Easter is not only about chocolate eggs or seasonal celebrations, it is also about bringing people together through kindness and joy.

“A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new roots.” – Amelia Earhart