Durban ICC supports leukaemia awareness campaign

The Durban International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) today, 21 September, joined thousands of South Africans to support the Sunflower Fund’s Sunflower Day initiative which gives the hope of life to patients diagnosed with leukaemia and other blood diseases.

The theme for this year’s campaign is “There is a hero in all of us”. The campaign is a clarion call aimed at effecting change by encouraging citizens to be agents of change and assist in the fight against leukaemia during Bone Marrow Stem Cell Donation and Leukaemia Awareness Month.

To raise awareness about the life changing interventions made by the Sunflower Fund, Durban ICC staff sported their multi-purpose TOPES (Tube of Hope) which can be worn as a headband, mask, scarf, cap or armband.

The Sunflower Fund CEO Alana James said the campaign mobilises the support of individuals and corporates across South Africa to give the hope of life to patients in need of a blood stem cell transplant.

“As an added goodwill factor, it gives us the satisfaction of knowing we are actively contributing to the economy of South Africa and creating employment. To see our TOPES being worn with pride is not just an honour for us, but a salute to our survivors, our fighters and our memories of loved ones; it is a show of support, a statement of HOPE,” added James.

Lindiwe Rakharebe, Durban ICC’s Chief Executive Officer said as a responsible corporate citizen it is important for the Durban ICC to actively contribute to the country’s shared vision and the United Nation’s global goals for sustainable development.

“Changing people’s lives is at the heart of what we do at the Durban ICC. As a catalyst for economic development in KwaZulu-Natal and country, we fully support projects that are aimed at job creation and skills development. I am encouraged by the positive economic impact of the jobs created by the production of the 200 000 TOPES which are sold during the campaign period,” said Rakharebe.

-ENDS-

Picture: Pumla Khwela

Issued by: The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC).
For more information contact: Durban ICC Corporate Affairs Manager Gugu Sisilana, 031 360 1302 or Gugusisilana@icc.co.za