‘Abandoned’ granny hopes to help others

“You take Dad and I will take Mom.”

These were words often spoken in jest by Marina Fuller’s children when the subject of their parents’ independent living was discussed.

Following her husband’s passing in 2021, the family joke became a serious conversation, with the former Krugersdorp resident’s son urging her to live with his family in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

“They had recently moved into a home which already had the bones of a flatlet,” Marina said with a smile which masked her pain like a plaster.

“We were going to put on the finishing touches to create a space of my own. My son, daughter and I were a strong unit. We enjoyed spending time together.”

Giving in to her son’s prompting, Marina bade her home of 50 years farewell, looking forward to spending her golden years with her eldest child and grandchildren.

“I cannot live out of another’s pocket and suggested that a portion of my Sassa pension would be paid over, as a means of me earning my keep,” said the 76-year-old.

“I further offered to cook to further contribute towards the household responsibilities.”

Recalling the early days of multi-generational living, Marina says she enjoyed many outings with her brood.

“We had so much fun but the novelty soon seemed to wear off,” she said.

“Other than preparing my breakfast and making coffee, I was barred from the kitchen. My sleeping space was restricted to the lounge and I was not allowed any visitors.”

Affordable
In February, after nearly two years of living with her son, the situation deteriorated further, with Marina facing a heart-breaking ultimatum.

“Out of the blue I was told that I need to find alternative accommodation,” she said her eyes falling on two bags containing her earthly possessions.

“I was shattered. Due to the floods, most of the affordable housing for the elderly had been damaged. My only option was to come to Benoni to be closer to my daughter.”

Taking up temporary residence at the Bottom of Boden Guest House, Jatniel, Marina scoured social media platforms, searching for budget-friendly accommodation.

“Finding housing on a Sassa budget proved tremendously difficult, but through networking, I was able to find a room in a quaint communal living space,” she said releasing tension from her shoulders.

“I feel like I am drowning in a sea of emotions, I never thought I would be so harshly rejected by my flesh and blood. If I cry, I fear I will never stop.”

Speaking about her son, Marina says that for now, she has left the door ajar for him.

“I cannot face him at this stage nor am I ready to speak with him but I will never shut him out completely. I just need time,” she said.

Dignity
Often the brightest sparks of ingenuity are born from a place of desperation and Marina’s predicament now has her investigating options to assist pensioners who may be in a similar position.

“Lack of financial freedom has resulted in many elderly people being stuck in situations, like mine, with no means to escape,” said the former Lions Club member.

“I believe that I have been brought here to make a difference.”

While still finding her feet within the Benoni community, the keen seamstress is eager to establish a network to connect budget-bound pensioners with prospective landlords.

“I came across the initiative in KZN, it not only assists the elderly in accessing reasonably priced safe accommodation but also to manage their funds to have enough food to see them through the month as well as some spending money,” she said.

“This not only preserves their dignity but also allows them to live in a space where they feel valued and cared for. The stark reality is that not all of us can afford to live in retirement villages or old age homes.”

Marina hopes to connect with local service organisations, churches and members of the community who would be able to get this initiative off the ground.

“Coming to Benoni, I felt defeated and completely out of my depth, but my experience here has been nothing but remarkable,” she said

“This is truly a community of caring individuals and I believe that with the backing of like-minded people, we will be able to get the ball rolling.”

Anyone interested in assisting Marina is urged to contact her on 083 526 0220.

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