If you have ever seen a tree wrapped in pink material and wondered what the purpose was? We have the answers and it’s a pretty great reason!
Pink Trees for Pauline was started by Carol-Ann van Jaarsveldt. She wanted to turn her mother and grandmothers legacy into “an epic tale of hope, encouragement and belonging. Carol-Ann lost her mother and her grandmother, both named Pauline, to cancer”. Pink Trees for Pauline was founded in 2012 and is a non-profit company.
The company sells pink material which is used at events to raise money for cancer awareness. It is a symbol of support by municipalities, towns and events.
“We sell the pink material at R25 a metre and then the people involved wrap the trees to give it that beautiful look as you drive through” – Adri van der Nieuwenhuizen
80% of funds raised by the sale of material in any given place goes back to cancer patients within that area. The work they do is vital to smaller communities.
“We work through the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), who have a huge database of patients.
“For example, if patients need transport to receive treatment, we assist them with that, or in whatever capacity we can. The stories that have come through this initiative have been amazing.”
The Bestmed Tour of Good Hope will be supporting this cause in March 2018. The organisation will approach businesses and individuals in Paarl, Franschhoek, Villiersdorp and Worcester, all towns that dot the route of the Tour of Good Hope, to urge them to become involved.
This means that cancer patients in those areas will benefit from the funds raised for the event. Bestmed is big supporters of fighting cancer and also sponsor the annual Cycle4Cansa Championship at Sun City.