Overstrand’s Lifesaving Team Needs You Right Now!

Every second counts in a medical emergency. But in the Overstrand region, there simply aren’t enough ambulances to go around. That’s where Overstrand Medical Response (OMR) steps in, and right now, they need your help to keep going.

Who is Overstrand Medical Response?

Cassie and Chantell Carstens started Overstrand Medical Response (OMR) in 2009 as a private ambulance and emergency medical service. From the beginning, they’ve helped anyone in need, whether the person could pay or not. That part never mattered.

They are often first on the scene after car accidents, heart attacks, home injuries, or when someone in a remote area needs urgent medical help. Whether it’s responding to a collision, a child with a severe allergic reaction or an elderly resident who’s taken a fall, OMR shows up, always with one thing in mind: help first, worry about payment later.

Why Is OMR in Trouble Now?

In 2020, OMR had to shut down due to the pandemic and new Department of Health rules. But Cassie kept helping wherever he could, acting as a “Community Medic,” while Chantell worked for another private service to keep them going. He never gave up his licence or practice number, and the couple always hoped to reopen.

That chance came in December 2023, after St John closed in the Overstrand area. With backing from an initial investor, they revived Overstand Medical Response and applied for a crucial licence upgrade. The upgrade was meant to take five months, but it ended up taking almost a year.

The delay forced the investor to withdraw, and suddenly, Cassie and Chantell were back at square one, only now with a team to support and vehicles to run.

Cassie and Chantelle have done everything they can to hold on, but without urgent help, OMR won’t be able to carry on.

What Happens if OMR Closes?

It’s simple, without OMR, the Overstrand community loses a critical safety net.

There will be fewer ambulances to respond when seconds count. People may be left waiting longer in an emergency, or may not receive help in time at all.

What Are The Funds For?

Running costs sit between R150,000 and R200,000 a month. That includes everything from fuel to salaries. While OMR is working on growing its paying member base, it needs urgent support to stay open now.

Cassie and Chantelle are aiming to raise R1.8 million to:

• Buy two ambulances

• Upgrade and calibrate essential equipment

• Cover daily operating costs (like fuel and medical supplies)

• Pay their dedicated staff

• Move into a better-equipped base

How You Can Help

If you can make a meaningful financial contribution, whether as an investor, a business or in a personal capacity, you can help this vital service continue its life-saving work.

Here’s how you can support Overstrand Medical Response:

• Invest in the future: 49% of the company is available for R1.5 million with a projected return in 24 months.

• Donate towards running costs and equipment upgrades.

• Sponsor equipment, fuel, or salaries if you’re in a position to assist.

• Help OMR connect with potential donors, funders, or partners.

If you’re interested in supporting this initiative, please reach out to Chantelle and Cassie directly:

• Chantell: 084 059 0045

• Cassie: 078 427 8647

Donate Easily via BackaBuddy!

You can support Overstrand Medical Response right now through their BackaBuddy campaign.

Here’s the link.

Remember, every contribution, big or small, helps OMR stay on the road and continue saving lives.

What People Say About OMR

"When my father collapsed, OMR arrived within minutes. They didn’t ask questions, they just helped. We would have lost him without them."  Local Resident, Gansbaai

"They transferred my mother late at night when no one else would answer the phone. I can never thank them enough."  Community Member, Pearly Beach

"Overstrand Medical Response helped us when we couldn’t afford it. They never made us feel less because of it."  Anonymous, De Kelders

Every Bit Helps

You don’t have to be a billionaire to make a difference. Even sharing this story could help OMR reach the right person.

Overstrand Medical Response has never turned its back on this community. Let’s not turn ours on them now.