The National Office concentrated on awareness and the Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Council hosted a civic function to launch the day. Mayor Isaac Mogase pledged the city's support for the work of the Foundation. Our Honorary National President, Bruce Fordyce, presented a commemorative bronze plaque to Professor Neville Welsh who recently retired from our Scientific Advisory Board. Professor Welsh praised the work of the Foundation and encouraged everyone present to give the Foundation their full support.

Our new TV advert, highlighting Macular Degeneration, was conceived and produced by Axis Films. It was flighted 29 times on MNet and also on SABC TV around World Retina Day. We are indebted to Axis Films, MNet and SABC for this generous sponsorship. The radio ad was also generously flighted by 94.7 Highveld Stereo, Radio 702 and various SABC radio stations, The total cost of both production and air time would have been in the region of R500 000 and we gratefully acknowledge a 11 who assisted us in mounting this campaign at a total cost to the Foundation of R nil. Some people who deserve special mention are Denise Hamilton of MNet, Noel Senogles and Ric Brummage of Axis Films, the PASA Committee of SABC, chaired by Mr Fakir Hassen and Illya Bracht of 94.7 Highveld Stereo.

Our supporters in the print media also deserve special accolades. They printed our World Retina Day advert free, usually a half page ad and sometimes twice! Thanks to Business Day, Natal Witness, Natal Newspapers, Pretoria News and The Sowetan.

A loyal supporter who wishes to remain anonymous printed 2500 full colour posters for us which were distributed all over South Africa. Special mention must be made of the South African Optometric Association who distributed these posters to their 1300 members. Thanks also to the ophthalmologists who displayed the posters and all libraries, schools and health clinics who participated. The National office sent out press releases to over 200 newspapers and radio stations.