January 18, 2005
Life-Place: Starting a new year and a new chapter for DFL

The beginning of 2005 is also the beginning of a new chapter for Doctors For Life International (DFL). On Friday, 7 January 2005 the opening of a new coffee shop in Pickering Street, Durban was celebrated. The cutting of the ribbon at the entrance was presided over by Dr. Albu van Eeden, CEO of DFL., and symbolised the official opening of 'Life-Place', a care centre where DFL aim to help woman in need.

In the past, DFL has been involved in court cases where social and medical scientific facts had to be brought into evidence, proving that prostitution should remain illegal. 'Life-Place' is  one step closer to formal rehabilitation for such women, but meanwhile it enables us to support and guide these women on a more personal basis.

Life-Place is situated in the heart of Durban, amongst many brothels; clubs and drug peddlers. This makes it an ideal spot to launch an outreach to the needy. Although the focus will be on facilitating women, it is anticipated that many other people will pass through these doors. It has been observed that there are many children in this area who live on the streets, each one also desperately requiring aid.  All are welcome!

During Dr. Van Eeden's opening speech, he devoted the work and place to assisting women who are "living on the streets”. He prayed that they might find peace with God, themselves and the people around them. Petra Luna, a trained social worker and full time volunteer from New York, USA, has committed her life to this kind of work. She has decided to accept the challenge of offering a helping hand to woman in need at Life-Place and will be supported by Bongi, a volunteer from the Durban area.

DFL would like to give special thanks to all those who helped to renovate, paint and decorate the coffee shop. We are also grateful to all those who supported the project in many other ways; e.g. with donations, encouragement and prayer

Renovations, decor and paint work was done by the Doctors For Life volunteers and staff.

Some of the guests placing their orders during the opening

Petra (left) welcomes all at the opening function


Dr. Albu Van Eeden and Petra Luna about to cut the ribbon...


... while the guests clap their hands with joy


Dr. Albu van Eeden while he gave his opening speech.


Dr. Albu van Eeden (CEO of DFL)


Petra Luna, manager of Life-Place.