Gears4Ears sounds call to action

Dolphin Coast residents Alan Hook and Scott Pearmain are spearheading a fundraising initiative to sponsor the costs of cochlear implant surgeries and treatments for those who have had or are scheduled to have the procedure.

Alan Hook is the founding director of Gears4Ears, a non-profit organisation, and also the recipient of a cochlear implant. He received this life-changing surgery with financial aid from his family and friends, and after repaying his debt, decided to establish Gears4Ears to help others benefit from the gift of hearing.

Costs of this surgery range from R15 000 to R400 000, so access to cochlear implants is relatively exclusive to those with the medical aid schemes to cover it or the money to pay for it outright.

This is the reason for Gears4Ears (G4E) – an annual mountain-biking race to help the individuals who cannot afford the invaluable implants. This year’s race will start at the Rain Farm on October 25, with the 50km G4E Challenge and the 25km G4E Classic attracting an estimated 600 cyclists.

The event has grown substantially since it was first launched in 2011, when just over 175 entrants took part. All proceeds, other than the cost of putting together the event, will go into the Gears4Ears trust in order to be later designated to candidates for cochlear implant surgery.

According to Scott Pearmain, cycling is among the fastest growing sports in South Africa, and because of the dangers of cycling on the road – many have turned to the adventurous sport of mountain-biking as a welcomed alternative.

“I am so excited to be part of this amazing campaign and I cannot wait to see it keep growing,” said Pearmain, who was approached this year by Alan Hook to serve on the event committee.

In the run-up to the event in October, the G4E trustees are seeking sponsors to help cover the costs of marketing, organising and running the race. G4E has five sponsorship options available, which allows anybody to donate amounts ranging from R1000 for goodies and prizes, R3000 for water tables, R5000 for banners and higher contributions securing joint and partner sponsorships, depending on the amount.

“The Gears4Ears MTB Cochlear Implant fundraiser on October 25 is rapidly approaching, where the event showcases the amazing Holla Trails and Rain Farm and importantly raises funds to financially assist cochlear implant candidates and recipients who live in a hearing world,” said Hook, who advised potential participants to get their entries in through the Roag website.

If you want to donate to this initiative contact Alan Hook 083 652 3533 or Scott Pearmain 076 773 3616.