Bowls club 'shoe' support for Slipper Day
EVERY year South Africans come together to show support for The Reach for a Dream Foundation's Slipper Day on May 30. The fundraising event sees people purchase a R20 sticker and wear their slippers which in turn helps support children with life-threatening illnesses.
The Queensburgh Bowling Club has decided to support Malvern youngster Zeke van Blerk who is battling a chronic kidney illness. The 11-year-old, who attends Malvern Primary School, helped co-ordinate with his grandparents (Annamarie and Bernie van Blerk) and mother (Leanne) to get the bowls club to support the annual fundraiser.
For Leanne, the support of the bowls club goes a long way to making a difference in the lives of others.
'They are really amazing. The club is one of the biggest supporters of Zeke as they buy sweet packs he sells every month which he uses to help other children in need. We raise funds for Reach For A Dream with those sales. I encourage other residents in the area to support the day; it doesn't cost a lot. All you need to do is purchase a R20 sticker from various outlets and don your slippers on the day.
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'Whenever we see the sign displayed in a shop we go in and thank the employees and owner for supporting the fundraising initiative. For all those skeptical, the foundation does amazing work. My son is proof of that and that small little gesture goes a long way,' she said.
While Zeke had a number of choices on the day for best dressed slipper, he had one thought in mind.
'It is so nice to see everyone wear their slippers. I think it suits them. My favourite on the day was The Grinch slippers. It makes my heart happy to see everyone support Reach For A Dream,' he said.
****Good to know*****
Reach For A Dream supports children aged three to 18 who are diagnosed with one of 110 life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, liver and heart conditions, renal failure, and muscular dystrophy. Each dream is tailored to a child's unique desires and medical limitations.
Participants can purchase a R20 sticker, the official symbol of support, from major retailers including Wimpy, Pick n Pay, Dis-Chem, Dis-Chem Baby City, Toys R Us, Babies R Us, Krispy Kreme, and Hush Puppies.
If you would like to get involved and support the Reach For A Dream Foundation, visit www.reachforadream.org.za.
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