HOLLY Rey survived a life-threatening health battle and is now helping kids facing the same struggles.
The 28-year-old singer from Westville, KZN, has become one of Mzansi's most celebrated artists, with multiple awards including Sama Record of the Year for Deeper and her victory as The Masked Singer South Africa 2023 winner under the alias, Lollipop.
After a harrowing fight with kidney failure and Type 1 diabetes, Holly Rey is using her fame to support kids in a similar situation.
In November 2025, in partnership with the South African Diabetes Alliance, she launched Wear It Forward, a celebrity clothing collection designed to raise awareness and provide practical support for kids living with Type 1 diabetes.
The label mixes fashion with charity, giving fans a way to help a cause close to Holly Rey's heart.
Reflecting on her journey, Holly Rey shared on Facebook: "This year, I survived kidney failure. I had months where I was too weak to shower or walk to the kitchen. Recovery from critical illness isn't straight forward, and it's never a solo journey. The biggest driver of recovery is love, the people who carry you when you can't carry yourself."
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The events leading to 2025 were particularly severe. In December 2024, Holly Rey was bedridden for months due to kidney failure, diabetes burnout, and extreme physical exhaustion, struggling with even basic daily tasks.
Despite the challenges, she credits her survival to timely medical care, guidance from her doctors, and unwavering family support.
"Healing is an achievement. Survival is an achievement. And your pace is enough," she said.
Her openness about diabetes burnout, emotional collapse, and extreme physical exhaustion has inspired many, turning personal struggles into a platform for hope and empowerment.
With Wear It Forward, Holly Rey hopes to encourage kids living with diabetes and raise awareness about the challenges they face.
For Holly Rey, 2025 hasn't been defined by career milestones or money, but by human survival, strength, and reflection.
Through her advocacy, fans now have the opportunity to help a cause close to her heart, helping kids live healthier, more confident lives despite the challenges of Type 1 diabetes.
"This year has taught me that surviving is a victory, and using your story to help others makes it even more meaningful," Holly Rey added.
