Athletes challenged to run for a good cause

RUNNERS from Queensburgh Harriers are challenging other Comrades Marathon runners to sign up for The Sunflower Fund’s 56Miles4Marrow comrades campaign.

The Sunflower Fund is a non-profit organisation whose purpose is to build the South African bone marrow registry and give patients suffering with leukaemia and other life threatening blood disorders the hope of finding their 1:100 000 donor match.

The Sunflower Fund’s Miles4Marrow campaign has proven to be a highly successful fundraising project as the athletes enjoy doing what they love for a good cause and the public is happy to support those doing something so physically challenging.

Sportsmen and women also seem to be more empathetic to the plight of those with terminal illnesses as they appreciate the fact that they can enjoy outdoor sport. Leukaemia patients spend weeks and months in isolation wards and sport is not an option for them.

Stephanie Berry, PR manager for The Sunflower Fund in Durban said,“People are very happy to sponsor someone they know, doing something extreme for a worthy cause.

“People can be amazed at how generous the sponsors are. On Sunday 1 June runners will be accomplishing a huge personal achievement by running 89kms and at the same time they will be giving hope to children whose situations seem hopeless. No matter how small every bit makes a difference,” said Berry.

To get involved contact Allison Naidoo on 079 881 3056 or email allison@sunflowerfund.org.za.

To become a bone marrow stem cell donor, visit www.sunflowerfund.org.za or call their toll free number 0800 12 10 82 (weekdays).