Epilepsy SA relies on the public’s support for its existence. “The government subsidy covers only 22 per cent of the needs of caring for the 80 residents with disabilities at Epilepsy SA’s Free State/Northwest Centre in Parys,” explains centre director Gary Westwood. Donations and fundraising are the main sources of the centre’s income.

“With lockdown, these two sources have dropped drasti- cally,” says Gary. This has a huge impact on the care they can provide to residents – many of whom do not have any other home! Tekkie Tax, through the sale of shoelaces and stickers, has been one of the centre’s most successful sources of funding.

The money from this campaign pays for the medicine, medical treatment and transport of patients to hospitals in Kroonstad and Bloemfontein. “Although most of the centre’s medicine is obtained from the clinic, there are times when there are stock shortages. In these times, we purchase the medicine,” explains Gary, “Not only do we care for persons with epilepsy, who need daily medication to control their seizures, but many of our residents also have conditions like schizophrenia, mood and dissociative disorders.

Such residents need daily medication. Without it, their behaviour becomes erratic.” Your support through donations or by purchasing Tekkie Tax shoelaces and stickers will ensure that all our residents have the medicine and medical care they need. Phone Johanné at 0568115959 or 0785710943 to support us. Remember ”Better Together”.