Press Release
June 2008
Mobile again thanks to support from AFTAID |
Doug can now get out to exercise Tye. |
London, June 2008 - AFTAID – Aid for the Aged in Distress is pleased to have been able to help Doug Kersey become mobile again.
The charity contributed £350 towards the cost of an electric scooter after Doug Kersey, who already had crippling arthritis, suffered a stroke.
It left him relying on a Zimmer frame to get around the house and his now 63 year old wife, Valerie, to push his wheelchair when they went out. Valerie said: “It has made such difference. We can now get out around the village easily.”
Living in a small seaside village, pushing 65 year old Doug along gravel or even shingle paths was very hard work and some places impossible.
It was particularly tough on Doug, who retired from work in 1985 at just 53 years old, following an industrial injury. All his life he had been sporty, swimming and running regularly, walking his Alsatians and clay pigeon shooting.
The couple was put in touch with Catherine Shum of Suffolk Coastal Helping Hand Agency and it was agreed an electric scooter was the answer. Living on basic state pensions, the couple could not afford the outlay. No central grants were currently available to cover the cost.
AFTAID stepped in and now Doug has been to the beach and has taken his dog Tye, out into the garden for the first time in 14 months.
Now they plan to save up for a tow bar and trailer so they can once again holiday in Peak District.
AFTAID trustee Lewis Green said: “It is always great to hear how an AFTAID grant can really make a difference. This sort of success increases our determination to raise more money to ensure we have the funds to help even more of our older citizens in times of urgent need.”
For further details or to speak to a Trustee email your request and contact details to info@aftaid.org.uk