Brenda needs wheels

Brenda needs wheels!

Our friend Brenda needs a new powerchair. We say ‘need’ because that is exactly what it is. Brenda is 61 years old and has lived all her life with a condition called Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy which has resulted in her being fully dependent on her powerchair and ventilator. In 2017, local businessman, Danny Laverty and friends, fundraised to get her powerchair replaced. At that time Brenda could not find a powerchair that would meet her complex needs but the money raised allowed her to get her then powerchair repaired and completely refurbished. While this gave her another 5 of years of use, the powerchair has packed in and she is no longer able to use it to get around. Brenda has tried to get it repaired but the chair is obsolete and spare parts are no longer available. As a result Brenda was confined to her house for a time.

This week Brenda was able to have a demonstration and be measured for a bespoke powerchair which would meet all her needs both inside and outside of her home. Given that Brenda spends approximately 16-18 hours a day in her chair a bespoke chair is essential. However, the downside is that the cost is in the region of £22,000! This is totally outwith Brenda’s financial situation. Therefore we, Brenda’s Buddies, are asking for your help in raising the funds needed for this vital equipment. At present the company who are making the bespoke chair have lent her a basic powerchair. It is not perfect for Brenda and she is in a lot of discomfort but at least she can now get out when she needs to.

Brenda is a very proud and independent lady who has spent her life raising funds for others. Over the years she has helped countless people and has raised over £80,000 for charity. While the majority of this has been for CHAS, Brenda has helped local people through her fundraising. She worked at Angus College for many years and was awarded the MBE for her services to Further Education. Brenda is an inspiration to many and when she hears of anyone in need her typical response is “what can we do to help?” Now is the time for us to support and help her.