Being the headline sponsor for The Sunflower Fund Doggy Walk for 3 years was more than just a fun day out with furry friends—it’s a heartfelt event with a profound purpose. Organized to raise awareness and funds for the Sunflower Fund, which supports patients with life-threatening blood diseases and helps grow the registry of stem cell donors, the event unites animal lovers and humanitarians alike.

It was wonderful to participate, along with other sponsors in combining a family-friendly pet walk with the goal of increasing awareness around stem cell donation.

 I feel that animals have an incredible way of connecting people and “The Doggy Walk” creates a platform for education and advocacy, while giving pets and their owners a chance to do something meaningful—together.

On event day, it was such fun to engage with pet owners, answering questions about pet care, and offering on-the-spot advice.

KZN Valley dogs is a wonderful organisation that aims to rescue and care for the disadvantaged  dogs and cats in the Inanda and Shongweni Valley. Feeding, caring for and sterilising the pets in this underprivelaged area is not an easy task and they rely on community funding and expertise.

Moreover, the impact of these clinics extends beyond the animals themselves. Educating pet owners—especially children—on responsible pet care and disease prevention fosters healthier homes and more compassionate communities. Through their work, alongside veterinary surgeons that donate their time and expertise the collaboration builds a legacy of empathy and health awareness.

My KZN practice and I were also delighted to assist in raising funds for KZN Rhino watch at a time when they desperately needed assistance in fighting an onslaught of poachers. The province of KZN was mobilised by local radio stations and other organisations to come to the aid of one of our most precious “Big 5”. As an avid camper and outdoorsman who has camped in Namibia, Botswana and of course KZN this was a cause dear to my heart.