Wheelchair gift brings joy and freedom to pensioner (84)
For Buyanini Florence Shabane, the loaned wheelchair has meant far more than just mobility - it has given her the chance to once again enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh air, sunshine and the beauty of her garden.
A simple act of kindness has brought renewed joy and independence to Buyanini Florence Shabane, who will celebrate her 84th birthday on March 27.
Shabane suffered a stroke in early December and has been confined to bed ever since. However, thanks to a wheelchair loaned to her by the Port Shepstone Lions Club, she is now able to enjoy the outdoors again.
With the help of her daughter, Shabane can now be taken outside to sit in her garden and watch the activity in her neighbourhood – something that has lifted her spirits tremendously. The grateful gogo said she is overjoyed with the wheelchair and thankful to the Lions for their support.
Helen Dodge of The Green Net played an important role in connecting the dots and ensuring that Shabane received the mobility aid she needed.
Trevor Read, vice-president of the Port Shepstone Lions Club and community service coordinator, said the club regularly loans wheelchairs and walkers to people in the community who need them, either on a short or long-term basis.
“We like to get them back at some stage so we can refurbish them and make them available for someone else who may need assistance,” he explained.
Read added that since taking office in July last year, the club has already loaned between 15 and 20 wheelchairs and walkers to people in the area.
He also encouraged members of the public who have unused wheelchairs or walkers at home to consider donating them to the Lions.
“Any condition is welcome, as we can refurbish them if needed and make them available to help someone else,” he said.
Contact Read on 082 8252990.
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