Support South African Farmers Battling Foot and Mouth Disease

Why this run matters

I'm Dr. Robbie McFarlane, a cow veterinarian from the Eastern Cape. South Africa is currently facing a devastating Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak that's financially crippling farmers and forcing many to possibly close their operations permanently.

The crisis: Farmers are struggling with massive welfare issues of their animals, financial losses, and severe mental stress on all involved. Many might lose their livelihoods entirely – some farms have been going for generations.

Some relief: The Agri Relief Foundation is raising funds to help farmers pay essential bills and continue operating. This is where we need YOU – together we can make a difference and raise relief for the farmers.

My commitment

I am not a runner; I am an overweight husband and dad with some lower back issues. My nickname at varsity was pig and it was not because I had twinkle toes. Running doesn’t come naturally to me, but I'm running the challenging 50 km Addo Trail Run to raise funds – the furthest distance I've ever attempted.

In addition, Border Kei Veterinary Consultants will donate 10% of all March professional fees to this cause and will sponsor my race entry and all other race costs – even the chafe cream and medical bills.

How you can help

• Sponsor per kilometer or make a flat donation.
• Provide medicines, products, or services.
• Donate in any currency – crypto welcome.
• Offer anything that will help: accommodation, holidays, flights, tyres, services, or prizes for a great raffle.

Impact: Every rand raised goes directly to farmers. I've already seen the relief on farmers' faces when we provided R10 000 worth of medicine – your support makes this possible.

This running is easy compared to what these farmers endure daily – some don’t even want to go to the farm because of what is waiting for them. Help us keep South African agriculture alive during this crisis.