WHY I’M SUPPORTING CANCER.
Over the last few years, several incredible people in The Jupiter Drawing Room family have been struck by cancer. They all came through as winners, but their battles were long and exhausting.
Unfortunately, the effects linger on and a regular “Ama-Jup-Jup” rider who can’t take part in the Cape Argus this year kindly offered me his entry.
That generosity means a lot to me. One of my own family passed away from cancer and this is my chance to give something back in their memory, as well as to honour the courage and strength of all survivors and the organisations that give them support.
What started as a small fundraising among my family and friends has developed into something bigger.
AND WHY I’M RIDING THE CAPE ARGUS.
What’s the big deal about competing in the Argus? Well, to be honest, nothing really! I’m like most other competitors out there- fit, healthy and active. But that’s no guarantee against the disease – it’s significant that the cycling world champion and testicular cancer survivor, Lance Armstrong, will be riding this year’s race too.
Like him, it’s my first Argus. Unlike him, the longest I have sat on a bike is for a 45-minute spinning class. So the pressure is definitely on, with so many people backing me to go the distance.
I urge you to get involved, whether for a lost friend or family member; a loved one currently battling the disease or for someone close who might be struck by cancer in the future. Organisations like The Sunflower Fund and Cansa may be the only life-line they have. But the costs are enormous: in leukaemia, for example, it costs R1000 to tissue-type blood donations to the required level.
Fund raising is as essential as finding donors. Any contribution will be greatly appreciated, big or small, whether it be “x amount per kilometer” pledge or a personal or group contribution (maximum of R1000 per pledge).
There is a blog with contribution updates – and my training, which should be good for a laugh. Please log onto http://argusforcancer.blogspot.com/ and show your support. Please let me know if you’re willing to make a pledge or donation, and I’ll send you details of the bank account.
I know that no matter how tough the hill might feel - or how much my legs might like to give up - my mini battle for just one day is nothing compared to the battle against cancer.
THE CHARITY
The Sunflower Fund (Friends of the South African Bone Marrow Registry) was formed in 1999 in Cape Town. It’s a non-governmental, non-profit organisation that gives the chance of life to all South Africans diagnosed with leukaemia and other life-threatening blood disorders, irrespective of their race and financial circumstances. The funds they raise help maintain a registry of potential bone-marrow donors for transplants to serious blood disorder sufferers.
CONTACT DETAILS
Mark Bland
Email: mbland@jupiterct.co.za
Cellphone : 084 645 2289
Work line : 021 442 7000
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