Riverfield Lodge celebrates Casual Day
NIETGEDACHT – Riverfield Lodge rehabilitation and treatment centre celebrates Casual day through a fundraiser.
Casual Day 2019 on 6 September was more than a fundraising event – it was a chance for people with disabilities to shine.
That’s why the Riverfield Lodge rehabilitation and treatment centre, located in Nietgedacht, celebrates the day by hosting its annual Spring Festival for patients to enjoy. On the day, patients and staff members were divided into teams as they participated in a number of activities including shot-put, bingo, the quick-thinking board game 30 Seconds, blowing challenges, cup pong and wheelchair races.
“This annual event has a very special programme,” explained Ida Geldenhuys, the therapy manager for Riverfield Lodge and one of the festival’s organisers. “About 42 of our patients participated this year, including those who have suffered spinal cord injuries, strokes, been in motor vehicle accidents, had joint replacements and those who have suffered traumatic brain injuries.”
Casual Day takes place annually on the first Friday of September and aims to raise funds for people with disabilities through the sale of specially designed stickers.
On the day and with the help of the lodge’s therapists and nurses, the patients were divided into teams which then moved around different activities. The last activity was a wheelchair race which staff members could also participate in, as well as a colour run, and the day ended off with a prize-giving event to acknowledge each patient for their efforts.
“Some of the activities are meant to challenge them,” added Geldenhuys. “For example, the blowing activity [where patients had to blow up balloons and suck through a straw to pick up sweets] builds lung capacity and therefore has therapeutic value.”
The festival is also a chance to see a totally different side of the patients, as well as see them do things we never realised they could do and was an opportunity for Riverfields to care for the disabled.
“We want to show people that we take their cause seriously. As a rehabilitation facility, it’s important for us to advocate for our patients.
“Casual Day is a chance not only to raise funds, but to show the disabled that not only therapists care about them, but that the community cares too.”
Details: www.casualday.co.za
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