PARALYSED in 1997 when she was hit by a car, Elsie Venter was told that she would ‘never be able to do anything on her own’ again. Her determination and drive pushed her onward and Elise will now compete in a marathon to raise funds for the local branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League.
She had undergone brain surgery, she could not speak or hear and was plagued by frequent epileptic seizures, the resultant diagnosis was that she would remain in a vegetative state for the rest of her life.
Gradually, through years of strength and resolve, Elsie completed her National Diploma in Education with distinction in 2010 and is a qualified teacher. This was one of her greatest achievements, and she realised the incredible power of the human brain, and that all is possible. Elsie started to walk with crutches and walking sticks, and now, 19 years later, she is running marathons.
Elsie Venter is now 55 years old and will compete in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on Sunday, 18 September, to raise funds for the Animal Anti-Cruelty League – Durban Branch.
She is an incredible woman, who, against all odds, is raising funds for the needy. Please make a donation and support Elsie, not only saluting her for her personal courage, but for her love for the care of animals and the extreme efforts that she will brave for her Cause for Paws,” said Judi Gibson, the AACL’s general manager.
Banking details: Animal Anti-Cruelty League,
Bank: Standard Bank,
Account number: 051350521
Branch Code: 051001
Reference : Elsie