TO promote early detection and treatment of Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), a total of 130 hospitals will conduct free screenings during the week of 15 to 22 July.

Paarl Medi-Clinic, Netcare, Afrox and selected academic hospitals will be participating in Legs for Life National Screening Week for PVD from Monday.

Many thousands of South Africans over the age of 50 years have a time bomb ticking in their legs.

They may feel intermittent jabs of pain, numbness and weakness, but assume it is yet another inevitable effect of ageing. This can be a serious mistake.

Pain, numbness and weakness in the legs are common symptoms of  PVD, a medical condition in which arteries in the legs are clogged or narrowed.

PVD is most common in men and women over the age of 50, with one in 20 men and women affected.

Although the cause of PVD is not known, factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a family history of heart disease or diabetes contribute to the development of this disease.

If left untreated, walking is difficult, ulcers may develop and, in severe cases, gangrene can result, making amputation necessary.

The early detection and treatment of PVD is important in successfully controlling it.

During screening participants are to complete a questionnaire designed to help assess their risk for developing PVD. Once the risk is determined, the participant may be sent for an ABPI and/or referred to their personal physician or nearest vascular clinic for further assessment.

This screening campaign is sponsored by the Vascular Society of Southern Africa (VASSA), Sanofi-Synthelabo, Netcare, Jomed, Afrox and other interested parties.

THIS year several of the Vignerons de Franschhoek have donated barrels of wine to be auctioned at the annual Hospice de Franschhoek Fine Wine and Art Auction.

In addition a host of collectable wines and a stunning array of artworks have also been donated for the auction which will be held on Saturday 14 September at Boschendal Wine Estate near Franschhoek.

The idea for this auction was inspired by the world famous auction held to raise money for the Hospice de Beaune, a charitable movement started in Burgundy in 1443.

Those donating barrels include Chamonix and Mont Rochelle (Chardonnay), Boekenhoutskloof (Cabernet Sauvignon), Jean Daneel Wines and Môreson (blended red wine).

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to enjoy a splendid day and pick up some rare wines or perhaps a beautiful work of art. Only 300 tickets are available and will be sold individually or by table of ten at a cost of R325 per person.

This includes a three-course luncheon by the famous chefs of Franschhoek and Vignerons de Franschhoek wines. Tickets are available from the Vignerons office tel 876-3062.

WINTER has arrived in a flurry of rain and cold weather. While some of us manage to keep dry, warm and snug, others are not quite as fortunate.

Make a heart-warming donation - bring us the clothes, blankets, shoes and oddments you no longer want to Seeff Paarl, and they will ensure they go to people that need them.

The appeal's urgency has been highlighted by freezing weather and several deaths due to exposure in the Western Cape.

Most shelters in Cape Town have reached their capacity and are forced to turn people away. There is a dire shortage of facilities and clothing. And the coldest winter months are yet to come.

Every bit helps, and more clothing is donated every year. It is very gratifying to see so many people giving so selflessly, without any reward.

If you would like to make a donation, contact Seeff Paarl on 872-1997.