The 'Photos for Hope' initiative encourages people to purchase professional and amateur photos in aid of those suffering from Leukaemia. A4 photos will be available for R100, and for buyers in search of something extra special, larger canvases of two metres will be on auction.

Leukaemia patients need to find a genetic twin in order to receive a life saving stem cell transplant. The tests that are required to establish this match cost R2000 each and The Sunflower Fund carries this cost in full, and so appeals to the public to help with this enormous burden.

“Sufferers may die before a match is found, so therefore it is critical that we increase the number of potential donors on The South African Bone Marrow Registry. On average, a patient needs to search through 100 000 individuals to find their donor and The Registry currently only stands at 64 500. It is important to add that if you are ever selected as a donor, the process of donating stem cells does not involve drilling into your bones to extract actual bone marrow. It’s a very simple process similar to giving blood. This process is so costly to us that we have launched many initiatives, like 'Photos for Hope', to raise money,” says The Sunflower Fund's communications manager, Lauren Corlett.

Although a very serious topic indeed, The Sunflower Fund have been innovative in their fundraising and have a fun weekend planned. Besides the sale and exhibition, Ivok Studios have donated their skills and time to the event. They will be on hand to take professional photos of anyone willing to strike a pose and pay just R40.

On Sunday, 26 August, Brightwater Commons will be providing a free concert by Simply 4 from 14:00 to 16:00. Feel free to bring along blankets and loved ones for a wonderful day out.

“I am convinced that this is going to be a really enjoyable day for everyone. I believe that Randburg will again bring come with sense of community and compassion to Brightwater. The bonus will be to relax in the warm afternoon sun and enjoy some eighties hits,” says Francois du Buisson, marketing manager at the Brightwater Commons.