Pearl Valley Golfers Raise R270,000 For Drakenstein Palliative Hospice

“Various member initiatives and activities saw our Captain’s Charity raise a sum of R 135,000.00 during 2014 – 2015,” says Gawie Marx, General Manager, Pearl Valley. “In turn, we matched this amount rand-for-rand resulting in the R 270,000.00 donated.”

Initiated two years ago, the Pearl Valley Captain’s Charity is an ongoing fundraising initiative.  It sees golfers, should they sink their ball into the water on the 13th hole, liable for a small fine.  This hole, with its breath-taking views of the Simonsberg Mountains and Berg River, is an absolute showpiece of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.

“Not only do we get to enjoy a fabulous round of golf in a magnificent setting but, in so doing, our Captain’s Charity enables us to give back to the greater community in which Pearl Valley is situated,” says Evert Nel, Pearl Valley Men’s Captain.  “Our sincerest thanks to all members for their continued support in raising these funds.”

Focused on the provision of palliative care in the district, The Drakenstein Palliative Hospice provides care for as many as 440 patients at any given time.  “We strongly believe that dying with dignity is a basic human right,” says Elizabeth Scrimgeour, Executive Officer, Drakenstein Palliative Hospice.  However, recent developments has seen the Department of Health no longer funding palliative care.  In addition, further cuts across preventative and promotive healthcare resulted in an almost dire situation for the hospice.

“Without Pearl’s Valley’s donation, it would have been impossible to continue servicing the entire district,” says Scrimgeour.  “It has been an absolute lifesaver that could not have come at a better time, providing us with a reprieve for the rest of this year.”

“With so many worthwhile causes in our area, it is often difficult to decide which ones to support,” continues Marx.  However, Pearl Valley was especially touched by the needs of the hospice and the incredible work they do. “We salute both Drakenstein Palliative Hospice and its carers for their outstanding contribution and commitment to the quality of lives of so many within our community.”