Xolani Luvuno's turnaround: From addict to amputee runner

Just over a year ago Xolani Luvuno was living under a bridge in Sunnyside, Pretoria, addicted to alcohol and Nyaope. He had little hope for the future.

"For more than 10 years I smoked these drugs. It was just a waste of money."

"The Nigerians we buy the drugs from they stay upstairs in a nice room, drive nice cars, us we don't have even underwear, because of buying the drugs."

Luvuno who grew up in rural Eastern Cape was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2009 and his right leg was amputated.

"It's not easy when you have one leg to find a job."

Hein Venter, a local businessman in Irene spotted Luvuno begging for money on his doorstep and he wanted to help.

"He looked so incredibly vulnerable."

Their journey began roughly a year ago.

Today Luvuno is no longer an addict. He has found passion in long distance running and has his sights set on completing the 2018 Comrades Marathon.