EMIHLE MBANGATHA
Animal lovers and wellness enthusiasts in East London can look forward to an unusual event on November 23, when Furever Fixed, a local non-profit organisation, teams up with KS Dance Studio to host a stretch class fundraiser at The Little Beacons.
Set against the serene backdrop of the Border Bonsai Society’s annual show, attendees will enjoy a relaxing stretch session while strolling among the beautifully displayed bonsai trees.
The event aims to raise funds and awareness for Furever Fixed’s vital work in sterilising and caring for stray animals. The initiative was spearheaded by KS Dance Studio coach Kristen Stockenström, whose love for animals inspired him to use his skills for a greater cause.
“I’ve always had a soft spot for animals and a passion for helping those in need,” Stockenström said. “For my 21st birthday, I asked for donations of cat and dog food instead of presents, which I then split between Pet Pals and the SPCA. This event is a natural extension of that passion, and I’m thrilled to support Furever Fixed.”
The pop-up stretch class promises to be both relaxing and rejuvenating, catering to individuals of all activity levels. Attendees are asked to contribute a R50 donation, and additional donations of cat food, cat litter or funds are also welcome.
“As a dance studio, we wanted to offer something from our repertoire that everyone could benefit from,” he said.
“Stretching increases flexibility, improves posture, alleviates neck and back pain, and boosts blood flow to the brain. It’s a perfect way to give back while nurturing your own wellbeing.”
The funds raised will go directly to Furever Fixed, a sterilisation-focused organisation co-founded by Amber Wiggill. The group works tirelessly to reduce the stray animal population by sterilising cats and rehoming dogs and puppies responsibly.
“Our motto is simple: prevention is better than cure,” Wiggill said.
“Sterilisation helps manage stray populations humanely while improving the quality of life for animals. We care for 13 animals and oversee 15 cat colonies, with each sterilisation costing between R600-R700.”
The event offers a critical opportunity to fund their work, with the goal of raising enough money to sterilise several more cats.
Sterilisation is a vital tool in addressing the stray animal crisis, particularly for cats, whose populations can grow rapidly without intervention.
A single unsterilised female cat and her offspring can produce thousands of kittens in just a few years, leading to overpopulation that results in severe consequences. Many stray cats face hunger, disease, injury, and harsh living conditions, while overwhelmed shelters struggle to cope.
By sterilising cats, organisations like Furever Fixed prevent the cycle of uncontrolled breeding, reducing the number of stray and unwanted animals. This proactive approach not only improves the health and quality of life for cats but also eases the burden on shelters and communities.
Sterilised cats are less likely to roam, fight, or develop health issues such as certain cancers, making them happier and healthier. Additionally, managing feral cat colonies through sterilisation creates more harmonious environments for both animals and people, fostering coexistence.
“We’re hopeful for a successful turnout,” Wiggill said. “Cat food donations will help us feed the colonies, and every rand counts towards our sterilisation programme. Together, we can make a difference.”
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi, a fitness novice, or simply an animal lover, this event is an opportunity to relax, stretch, and support a meaningful cause. Mark your calendar for November 23 and head to The Little Beacons to be part of this initiative
