Our readers have big hearts when it comes to kidneys – 2001

The Southern Cross’s appeal for a new kidney for Cape Town teenager, Emile Leaner has, according to Sr Fiona McCurdie, received an overwhelming response from its readers; yet no suitable donor has been identified. Emile suffers from Alphat Syndrome, a genetic defect characterised by deafness, eye problems and kidney disease. According to Sr McCurdie, transplant coordinator at Groote Schuur Hospital, many people were not only interested in what the possibilities were for donating a kidney and the criteria involved, but also to either offer their kidneys or to simply know about Emile’s condition.

Huge statue of Madonna – 1933

Through the initiative of the Most Rev Angelo Paino, archbishop of Messina, a colossal statue is to be erected in the port of Messina as a symbol of the Faith and civilisation of the Italian nation. The stone column of 150 feet high will be surmounted by a globe representing the world, while the Madonna of the Letter statue, in bronze and 20 feet high, will stand atop the globe.