The Epilepsy SA centre in Geduld held its annual Christmas party on November 28. The party, organised by a friend of the organisation, Susan Roos, was for the beneficiaries and the staff.

Centre director Aileen Langley told the Springs Advertiser that the party aimed to make the beneficiaries feel special and show their importance to the organisation, which includes the 182 permanent residents and 160 daily clients in the protective workshops.

Langley said that every beneficiary received a personalised gift after a lot of coordination by the organising committee.

She shared a moment that stood out for her, “The residents are so special and grateful for what they receive. I was overwhelmed by their love and gratitude.”

Langley thanked several people who made the day possible, including Roos, who has organised the party for three years.

As the year wraps up, she highlighted the need and the hopes for the centre in the new year. It needs adequate security and volunteers with expertise to serve on the board of management. She said their staff are professionals but earn much less than their peers in the government and the private sector.

Langley said, “Some earn minimum wages and come to work even when the government subsidies are paid late. We need a haven for people with epilepsy and other neurological conditions and general disabilities in Springs.”

She concluded with a message for the community, saying the centre needs them, and no matter how big or small the contribution, it matters.