It is thanks to longtime Stepping Stone Hospice Volunteer and “Come Whine With Me” event co-ordinator, Antoinette Pretorius, that the hospice was able to secure Elanie as a speaker, after Antoinette came across Elanie’s book Van Skoolbank tot Bordeelbed whilst on holiday: “I was totally engrossed in Elanie’s story and just knew she’d be the perfect speaker at this year’s event. I Googled the book, found the publisher and eventually got hold of Elanie, who graciously accepted our invitation.” 

Elanie was born in Brits in 1977 and spent many years in a dysfunctional family before being held captive as a sex slave. For some years following her escape and rehabilitation, she worked in the corporate sector, but now spends her time giving talks about how she survived and thrived after what she went through. Her book Van Skoolbank tot Bordeelbed was an instant bestseller, with over 10,000 copies sold in the first three months. It has since been translated into English under the title From Playground to Prostitute.

“My message is always one of hope,” said Elanie when asked what the ladies can expect to hear from her on the night. “It is up to you to change your life. And when you do, you find yourself becoming a role model for others to find the courage to do the same.” 

The annual, ladies-only “Come Whine with Me” event is one of Stepping Stone Hospice’s main fundraisers of the year and will be held at Glenvista Country Club on Tuesday, 8 August – just in time for National Women’s Day. The night promises to be packed with inspiration, great giveaways, wine tasting and some wonderful live entertainment. Each table can seat 10 ladies, at R300 per head (which includes dinner). There will also be a cash bar.

For more information and/or to book, contact Kerry Johnston on 010 516 0033 or email kerry@steppingstonehospice.co.za.

Caption: “Come Whine with Me” guest speaker Elanie Kruger (middle), with Stepping Stone Hospice CEO, Tersia Burger (left) and hospice volunteer, Antoinette Pretorius (right)