Paedspal Paediatric Palliative Care is calling on the public to join its fundraising plunge at St James Tidal Pool on Saturday, September 19, in support of its vital work caring for children with serious illnesses.
The Rondebosch-based non-profit organisation has been providing paediatric palliative care for more than 10 years. Its aromatherapist, Fiona McLennan, said Paedspal supports children aged 0 to 18 years old who are living with serious and challenging illnesses.
How Paedspal supports children and families
“These include complex genetic syndromes, cancer and children requiring transplants because of liver or kidney failure,” she said.
Paedspal provides a range of services to children and their families, including medical support, social workers, nursing care, creative arts therapy, family counselling and aromatherapy massage.
McLennan said the organisation chose a swimming-themed fundraiser because many of its members enjoy spending time in the sea.
Public invited to take part
“We decided to make this a fundraiser for Paedspal. It’s a very sociable event. Anyone can join and there is no cost,” she said.
Although there is no entry fee for the plunge, Paedspal welcomes donations of any amount.
McLennan said the event is also intended to raise awareness about the importance of paediatric palliative care.
“It’s also about creating awareness of the need for children’s palliative care,” she said.
Colour My World South Africa is joining the plunge
The Bergvliet-based Colour My World South Africa (CMWSA) will also participate in the Plunge for Paedspal fundraiser.
CMWSA founder Nazleen Carelse said it was important for the organisation to support Paedspal because both organisations share a commitment to caring for vulnerable children and supporting their families.
“Paedspal provides essential palliative medical care and emotional support to children living with serious illnesses. One of our CMWSA ambassadors is also a Paedspal patient, which makes this initiative especially meaningful to us,” she said.
Carelse said CMWSA members and supporters would stand alongside Paedspal in support of the fundraising initiative.
The Plunge for Paedspal will take place at St James Tidal Pool on Saturday September 19 from 9am.
For more information, contact Fiona McLennan at fiona.mclennan@paedspal.org.za, Dr Teresa Jennings at teresa.jennings@paedspal.org.za or Paedspal at info@paedspal.org.za.
Visit Paedspal Paediatric Palliative Care for more information.
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