Personal message

In the month of May, I will have the privilege of joining an international team of volunteers trekking through the majestic landscapes of Nepal to Mount Everest Base camp.

Apart from being an absolute adventure through the most breathtaking landscapes on our planet, the trip is in aid of an amazing effort by the Avela Foundation to raise funds in support of the treatment of South African children who are burn survivors.

We hope to use the funds to refurbish the burns unit (Ward K2) of Kimberley Public Hospital and to provide psychological support for children scarred by burns, enabling them to reclaim their dignity and humanity.

I will be covering my personal costs, and also personally donate towards this noble cause. I am inspired by the remarkable work being done by Avela, and men and women from all over the world caring for some of the poorest and most vulnerable members of South African society.

This act of international solidarity exemplifies perhaps the best of the human spirit - our ability to have compassion and care for someone we have never met. I believe this is the spirit that Nelson Mandela had so beautiful invoked in his life and works. It also echoes the clarion call made by the late legendary jazz singer Hugh Masekela with this evocative song 'Thuma Mina', (Send Me) to lend a helping hand.

Please lend your helping hand. You can make a huge difference, even with what might seem like a drop in a vast ocean. If we can give life changing treatment to just one child, it can change the world - for her or him. Your generosity will inspire us to climb the highest mountains because we too want to lend a hand.

Please pledge towards my challenge.

Thank you! Derrick.

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