Tembisa woman shows what Ubuntu is

Ms Johanna Bruce, who spent quite some time in hospital, was found destitute by Tembisa resident, Ms Rebeccah Phathakge.

Ms Phathake, who comes from Esiphetweni, came to Ms Bruce’s rescue in November last year, when she returned from shopping at Eastgate Shopping Centre.

“When I found her, she had no bag of clothing or anything with her.

“I took her to hospital for a check up. I am appealing to anyone who might know her family or relatives to contact us.

“Ms Bruce mentioned that her husband had died. Both her parents have passed on. She has three children, Rudy, Marshal and Ronny. She said years have gone past without seeing her children,” said Ms Phathakge.

Ms Bruce speaks German Afrikaans.

She has no identity book or passport, or any other document that could help lead to her family or relatives.

Ms Phathakge said she has been taking care of homeless people since 1995.

“It always hurts me to see elderly people on the streets, homeless. The elderly need all the care and love they can be get. For years I was homeless and I know the pain. I had to rely on the kindness of strangers for survival. I know that I am lucky to be alive,” said Ms Phathakge.

Ms Phathakge, who shares her house with three other homeless elderly people, said she will continue to share the kindness and love she learnt on the streets with those who are destitute.

Ms Phathakge appealed for any help to assist Ms Bruce in obtaining her identity book or tracing relatives.

Anyone with information can contact Ms Phathakge on 071 251 1195.