Ninety-year-old walks 900km for charity

Despite more than a month still left to go before his birthday target in June, 89-year-old Bill Wedderburn completed his 900km by 90 years charity drive on Friday.

The mid-South Coast philanthropist got the idea for this charity initiative during his time in hospital in January 2021 while recovering from a Covid-19 infection. Living with chronic kidney disease and being a prostate cancer survivor, Wedderburn was considered high risk.

It was during his hospital stay that he learnt of the death of a 36-year-old nurse, Hlengiwe Mbeje, who died of Covid-19 shortly before he was admitted. The tragedy, coupled with the incredible support he received prompted him to do something in return.

Wedderburn said the funds raised will go to the families of healthcare workers who died of Covid-19. He added that the walk also aided him in recovering from his illness.

“I really encourage everyone to get out there and exercise. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed and to the Renishaw Hills community for your greetings and encouraging comments on my daily walks through the village. Those really kept me going. Although I have reached my goal six weeks early, I think I’ll continue going and try to reach 1 000km by my birthday,” he said.

Wedderburn was cheered on by fellow Renishaw Hills residents as he completed his final kilometre.

Working with a team that includes a practising surgeon, attorney, IT specialist, and former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers, Wedderburn recently established the Covid Healthcare Workers’ Family Fund to raise funds for the relatives of those who have died fighting the virus.

Phil Barker of Renishaw Property Developments said they are so proud of Wedderburn’s incredible achievement that has touched the lives of so many people, far and wide, since he started in June last year.

“He is the true embodiment of the community spirit and nature of giving that is found within Renishaw Hills. We are so proud. He is a real inspiration, not only to Renishaw Hills residents, but to people of all ages regarding purpose, goals, dedication, and compassion for those in need. I hope Bill becomes a shining example of the good that can be achieved by each and every one of us. We all have our part to play,” said Barker.

For the fundraising initiative, Wedderburn committed to walking 900km before his 90th birthday on June 9, clocking 100 kilometres for every decade of his life. For every kilometre missed, he said he would pay R10 into the fund and he is encouraging other like-minded sponsors to support the cause.

In support, Renishaw Property Developments contributed R10 for every kilometre Wedderburn walked.