THE Operation Bobbi Bear home in Doonside is mourning the death of one of its employees who had been with the centre since its beginnings 25 years ago. Sweetie Somi, widely known as Gogo Sweetie, passed away on September 17. Bobbi Bear’s CEO, Eureka Olivier, said the death of Gogo Sweetie has left everyone at the centre numb.
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“It is with such raw sadness and heartache that Jackie, the team and I face the news of the passing of our beloved Gogo Sweetie. She was truly our mentor with many years of love. The dedication she displayed to each and every one of us, and the hundreds of children and families she assisted during her time here, will always be remembered. Rest safe in the arms of the angels, Gogo Sweetie,” said Eureka.
As everyone at Bobbi Bear tries to come to terms with the tragedy, Eureka recalled how Gogo Sweetie was a peacemaker and an advisor to the junior staff. Operation Bobbi Bear is a human rights organisation committed to helping sexually abused children in Amanzimtoti.
“Your arms held more dying children and comforted more families than anyone else we know. Thank you for the love, loyalty and passion you instilled in every one of us over the years. We will never forget you and will always fondly treasure the memories of your work and the personal impact you had on every single one of us. You were our matriarch, and we all learned so much from you; your teachings were never from a book but from your life experiences and your heart,” said Eureka.
A tribute that Eureka posted on Facebook drew many responses, all sending their condolences and messages of how Gogo Sweetie had a positive impact on their own lives.
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