​Staff Writer
Echoing a common sentiment: Public services are making a real difference in people's lives. From improved access to better healthcare, quality education and almost efficient service delivery. People are experiencing several interventions.
We spoke to several residents about their journey to better health which is a testament that strides are being made in ensuring that no one is left behind.
One such individual is 34-year-old, Hlengiwe Masemola, from Soshanguve in Tshwane who underwent gastric bypass surgery. 
"Gastric bypass not only changed my life but has saved my life for the better. I have never been this happy in my adult life. 
"I have lived most of my life being obese and I had surgery when I was 30 years old and it's been four years of living a happy life."
She said the main benefit of the procedure is that she is no longer tired, she can breathe easier. 
"The entire medical staff at the hospital were very supportive, from my surgeon, the administrator even the nurse were all very supportive before and after my operation."
Zweli Duma from Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni received a new lease on life and a renewed sense of purpose after receiving cochlear implant.
For three years, he had lost his hearing ability but after undergoing a surgical placement of the implant at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, he was finally able to once again share laughter with his family.
Duma's journey began in November 2013 when he woke up and suddenly could not hear anything. He immediately sought medical attention at Bertha Gxowa hospital, which then referred him to Tambo Memorial hospital. Despite being prescribed hearing aids by the hospital's Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) department, Duma still could not hear anything. 
He was then referred to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic hospital where his life took a positive turn and his dream of hearing his son's voice drew closer.
"This cochlear implant opened many doors that were previously closed to me. I lost my job due to my hearing loss but now I have a job. I have an opportunity to make a positive impact on the people facing similar situations. I want to continue this journey of helping people and make a difference," said Duma.
Cervical cancer survivor, 52-year-old Reinet Baloyi sings songs of praise to the medical staff at George Mukhari Academic hospital where she underwent her treatment.
Baloyi said she went clinic because she after he suspected an infection. I returned to the clinic, where they performed a Pap Smear. The results suggest that I might have cervical cancer, and I was referred to the hospital.
"After additional tests, I was scheduled for six weeks of radiation treatment and since then, I have been cancer-free. Right now, I am only attending follow-up visits," said Baloyi.
The third patient is seven-year-old, Kagiso Molaoa who recovered from severe burns. Kagiso underwent six operations and survived three septicaemia attacks which needed high care isolation.
Kagiso's mother, Dimpho Ntsala said that her daughter received the best medical care because she often had doubts that her daughter would pull through due to the extent of her burns.