Local stroke support group gets assistance
The Department of Health and Wellness recently assisted the Helderberg Support Group (a non-profit organisation supporting stroke survivors) to acquire much-needed funds by selling casual day stickers.
According to the Heart Foundation strokes are the second leading cause of disabilities and deaths.
Helderberg Hospital and Western Cape Health and Wellness Disability team organised a casual day event on Friday September 1, to raise funds for the Helderberg Stroke Support Group Organisation.
Casual Day is an annual event. The Department of Health and Wellness’s disability team partnered with Helderberg Stroke Support Group to raise funds on behalf of the organisation and all proceeds will be given to the Helderberg Stroke Support Group.
The disability component partners with different organisations annually, as a way of giving back to the community.
“We are primarily funded by other funders. We are currently in a massive financial crisis. Department of Health and Wellness coming in and having us as their beneficiary will keep us open for two more months.
“I cannot express the amount of gratitude I have for Lucky Mazabelana from the Department’s disability unit and his team because this will help keep us on our feet and gives us an opportunity to create stroke awareness, high blood testing and being able to speak to people about the services that we offer,” said Claudia Andrews, Organisational Manager, Helderberg Stroke Support Group.
Helderberg Hospital staff bought casual day stickers to support the organisation. This organisation has been operating for 30 years, changing the lives of those affected by strokes through rehabilitation, prevention, education and training and it has not been easy for the organisation to get donations to continue their great work and keep their doors open.
Michelle Buis, Deputy Director, Department of Health and Wellness, said: “Today is celebrated in aid of people living with disabilities. This year we are supporting the Helderberg Stroke Support Group and It is a nice way of collecting funds because we know that the Non-Profit Organisations are really struggle with funding.”
The public can support the Helderberg Stroke Support Group by visiting their website at www.hsgg.org.za or by calling Claudia Andrews at 079 612 8903.
