In a statement issued by the Koppel family, it was revealed that Lisa was diagnosed in November 2023 and privately underwent treatment in South Africa and abroad, pursuing every available option in the hope of overcoming the disease.
The family said Lisa chose to keep her illness private, primarily to protect her three children and preserve their happiness and innocence. Despite the challenges of her illness, they described her as “gentle, humble and remarkably brave”.
The family is now sharing Lisa’s story to raise awareness of colorectal cancer, which is increasingly affecting younger people. They highlighted the importance of screening and urged people experiencing persistent symptoms to seek medical advice and appropriate investigation.
Lisa leaves behind her husband, Danny, their three children, and the wider Koppel and Gundelfinger families.
“Lisa’s illness will never define her,” the family said. “She will be remembered for the way she lived and loved: with kindness, humility, courage and an unwavering devotion to the people who meant everything to her.”
The family has asked for prayers, compassion and privacy as they mourn her loss.
