Don your coolest pair of shades in support of the visually impaired

In a bid to raise awareness about visual impairment and eye health, this Friday is Wear Your Shades Day.

The day is a national initiative by the South African Guide Dogs Association for the Blind.

Show your support for the cause by purchasing a R20 sticker online (guidedog.org.za/product/wear-your-shades-day-sticker/) or buy from participating retailers (Pick n Pay), while wearing your coolest sunglasses.

“Every year, our mission is to transform the lives of approximately 800 individuals by providing them with assistance dogs and long cane training,” said Pieter van Niekerk, spokesperson for the SA Guide Dogs Association.

“Wear Your Shades Day is a powerful way for the public to get involved and support our ongoing efforts to make a real difference in the lives of those living with disabilities,” said Van Niekerk, who is visually impaired himself and a proud guide dog owner.

Wear Your Shades Day also emphasises the importance of protecting your eyes.

Globally, in at least 1 billion of 2.2 billion cases, wearing sunglasses to protect against the sun’s harmful UV rays can help prevent vision impairment.

Wear Your Shades Day is more than just a fundraising effort – it’s a movement that encourages all South Africans to unite with the visually impaired community.

Funds raised from the campaign will directly support the SA Guide Dogs Association’s programmes, including the breeding, raising and training of assistance dogs for the visually impaired.

Snap a photo of yourself and your family, friends or even your pet wearing shades on Friday, 18 October and stand a chance to win R20 000 worth of prizes.

Tag @sa_guide_dogs on social media using @South African Guide-Dogs Association (Facebook and LinkedIn), @sa_guide_dogs (Instagram) and the hashtags #shadesday and #shareyourshine.

Visit www.guidedog.org.za for more information.

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