Dulcie Rathbone, affectionately known as Aunty Peggy, can move around independently again thanks to good samaritans who sponsored her with a brand-new wheelchair.
The 101-year-old Aunty Peggy, who resides at the Eleanor Murray Residence in Woodstock, was in desperate need of a wheelchair after she fell a few weeks ago and cracked her femur.
Denise Vigus, an administrator at the home, says following the article in People’s Post they were contacted by HOOP, a community project affiliated with Bok Radio based in Brackenfell, who informed her that they will sponsor Aunty Peggy with a new wheelchair.
Vigus says: “We received a call from them and the next minute they sent us photos of the wheelchair. We just had to choose a colour. In this horrible time in our lives, it is amazing how people really show they care. We are so happy and grateful.”
Vigus explains that for the past few weeks, they had to rent a wheelchair at an extra monthly expense.
According to Vigus, the centenarian is elated with “her new 4×4”.
“Aunty Peggy is still very independent and does things for herself. She is so chuffed and we chose a red wheelchair, so she loves the colour as well. She is such an amazing woman and so strong.”
Wilinda Ford, project manager at HOOP, says the organisation was established six years ago.
“Our organisation helps physically challenged children, animals and try and bless people in the community daily. Sometimes people need ingredients for their shop kitchen, or animal organisations ask us for food for the animals. We always try and see how we can assist. We are blessed, that is why we can bless others.”
Ford says they were alerted by one of the employees at Bok Radio about Aunty Peggy’s dilemma.
“We saw the appeal that Aunty Peggy needs a wheelchair and we immediately responded. We drove to buy the wheelchair and we were able to bless the centenarian with a brand-new wheelchair. They came and collected it on Thursday 3 August, at our offices.”
