Shiny red wheels for pensioner
If you know of anyone who needs a wheelchair or an upgrade, email carol@mwntoti.co.za.
A plea for a wheelchair from New Zealand culminated in a Montclair pensioner receiving a new lease on life, thanks to the Buy a Ride – Give Them Wheels campaign.
Last month Bianca Brown was instrumental in setting up a wheelchair donation for five-year-old Kwanele Mlambo, who was born with a hole in his spine, spinal bifida and hydrocephalus.
“After I posted it on Facebook, my sister-in-law in New Zealand said her friend’s mother was in need of a wheelchair,” she said. Via various channels, Bianca eventually made contact with 89-year-old Janet Henderson, who was presented with her new wheels at the Mark White Nissan dealership in Amanzimtoti on Wednesday, 7 October.
“I love it, it is beautiful,” said Janet at the handover. “I can now get outside as I love the sun and outdoors.” Janet has been bedridden since she shattered her hip and broke her arm in a fall in July. “I’m proud of my new Ferrari,” she said jokingly, refering to her shiny, new red wheels.
It was a double celebration at the dealership when Marietjie Fourie of Toti became the sixth recipient of the campaign, which was started by the dealership in April, where a percentage from any vehicle sold is put aside for the foundation.
Her new wheels were sponsored by Dean Wright of Scuba Co in Johannesburg.
Marietjie, who suffers from Myers Disease, said her new wheelchair will help her move around with her children and be more mobile.
“I had a very old wheelchair, so I’m very happy with this new one. It will help me a lot.”
If you know of anyone who needs a wheelchair or an upgrade, email carol@mwntoti.co.za.
