Embarking on the journey of remembrance together

The four women explained that they feel Benoni, like many other towns, are tired, disheartened and in so much pain, which is why they decided to start this remembrance event.

June 26, 2021

Jemma Buys 2 minutes read

Remembrance tree. Photo: Jacques Meiring.

Losing a loved one is never easy but remembering them brings comfort.

This is why those, whose loved ones have died, can place ribbons on trees alongside Great North Road.

With the permission of the Ekurhuleni metro, Debbie dos Reis, Verena Metzer, Michelle Bester and Vanessa Fourie from ‘the Guardians’, as they are known in Benoni, decided that the city needed a grieving and remembrance tree trail.

This is not only to raise awareness about Covid-19 but also how many have died because of the pandemic.

“We were talking about how sad it is that we do not get to say goodbye to our loved ones,” said Debbie.

“One minute they are here, then they get sick, go to hospital and pass away. No goodbye and no family to gather around and share that loss.”

Debbie remembered that in the old days after wars, people would tie a ribbon for the fallen soldiers who never came home.

“We all agreed that this might help our people now. People are suffering from emotional fatigue and are so afraid,” she said.

The ribbons can be seen driving along Great North Road, the starting point being Kei Street and ending at Mercury Street.

“Each ribbon has a name on it so people are welcome to stop, read and of course tie their own ribbon for their lost loved ones,” she said.

“It might also help, especially on such a busy road, for people to see how many have been lost. It will serve as a reminder to follow the Covid rules.”

According to Debbie, Jacques Meiring contacted the metro for permission.

“Within an hour they had put the poster together and we were good to go,” she said.

The four women explained that they feel Benoni, like many other towns, are tired, disheartened and in so much pain.

This is why they decided to launch the remembrance campaign.

“There have been so many losses and you start to run out of tears. This is just another way to deal with the pain and honour the dead, like a final call,” she said.

“I am hoping that people will continue doing this until we beat this terrible silent killer, the more ribbons the more we honour our fallen. To the people of Benoni I would like to say, stay strong even if it feels like you cannot go on anymore.

“This is Benoni and this is what we do, we are the heart and we are strong.”

Those who need assistance to place their ribbon may contact Debbie on 071 161 1168, Verena 083 379 4002, Michelle 072 191 0146 or Vanessa 083 462 9768.

“Let us know and you can send the names of your fallen ones and we will put the ribbons up every Friday,” she concluded.