Support the Sunflower Fund by buying a Tope

The much-loved and practical Tube of Hope (Tope) in support of The Sunflower Fund goes on sale from the beginning of October.

The Tope is a multipurpose accessory and is a key element of Sunflower Day – the biggest fundraising and awareness initiative for the cause of blood stem cell donation in South Africa.

Proceeds from the sales of the product enables the organisation, based in Ferndale, to recruit blood stem cell donors offering the hope of a cure for patients diagnosed with life-threatening blood diseases like leukaemia, sickle cell disease and aplastic anaemia among others. It also contributes to the growth of the patient assistance fund, which helps patients with the cost of getting a transplant, without which many would not survive, even if their rare matching donor is found.

Due to the impact of Covid-19, the campaign was moved from its signature date in September to 13 November.

CEO of The Sunflower Fund Alana James said, “It’s been incredibly special to see the immense interest from the public about when the product will finally hit the stores.”

James explained that the campaign, which is now in its 17th year, has been the single biggest campaign to educate the public and make them aware of the urgent need for donors in South Africa.

Transformation director at partner Pick n Pay Suzanne Ackerman-Berman explained that this year, Pick n Pay expects even more excitement as South Africans look to add to their face mask or buff collection.

“The Sunflower Day Tope lets customers keep safe while also supporting an amazing cause. By buying a Tope, customers help create awareness for the Sunflower Fund and donate towards the critical work they do driving stem cell donor numbers locally,” said Ackerman-Berman.

The Topes range in price from R30 each and come in a variety of colours including blue, green, pink, red, yellow and black. They can be purchased at Pick n Pay stores nationwide, selected independent pharmacies and online on Zando.

The fund also urges supporters to consider planning a mini-event or fundraiser to commemorate Sunflower Day and help much-needed fundraising efforts to grow the patient support fund.

Individuals between the ages of 18 and 55 with a consistent body weight over 50kgs and a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 40 should register as donors on www.sunflowerfund.org

To partner with the fund to host an event, contact Traci Sassenberg on 021 701 0661 or email traci@sunflowerfund.org