Hope is lost – and found
He was found on the N2 in the early hours of the morning having run out of petrol.
AN elderly Shelly Beach man diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and dementia and who went missing on September 1, has been found.
John Hope (76) was last seen leaving his home in Shelly Beach in his bakkie at 3pm that Sunday. He was found 10 hours later by a tow truck driver on the N2 near Scottburgh.
“My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and dementia in 2008, and has not driven since,” said Mr Hope’s wife, Mervynne (74).
While Mrs Hope was busy with chores in the house, her husband snuck out. “I heard the bakkie start, but by the time I got to the driveway, he had driven out of the property,” she said.
She ran to her daughter’s house, which is on the same property and explained what had happened.
“We contacted our friend Molly Goghil who in turn contacted a security company and asked for a search to be conducted. The police and family and friends were also called to assist in the search.
“As time went by I wondered if he was safe. I prayed that he hadn’t wandered somewhere dangerous or lonely. I was also worried as he had no money, cellphone or ID with him.” said Mrs Hope.
At about 1.30am the next morning, Mr Hope was found on the N2 near Scottburgh by a tow truck driver from Sesfikile Towing. Mr Hope had run out of petrol and was left stranded. The tow truck driver took Mr Hope and his bakkie to Port Shepstone SAPS, were he was met by relieved family and friends.
“I would like to thank the tow truck driver. If it wasn’t for him, my husband could have been in real danger. Thanks also go to Sergeant Sam Naidoo who assisted us at the Port Shepstone police station and Warrant Officer Johan Maree and his colleagues for helping to find my husband. And of course, to all my friends who helped and supported me in bringing him home, a huge thank you,” said Mrs Hope.
When Mr Hope was asked where he was going , he said he had no recollection of his journey. “For most people, being able to drive a vehicle is a very important part of their daily life. He used to drive to work and back every day and was the family’s designated driver. He is probably missing that as I now do all the driving,” said Mrs Hope.
