That’s wheely kind of you
BOND: Dorothy Roman with Rene Jumat BOND: Dorothy Roman with Rene Jumat
Bonteheuwel's oldest woman received an early birthday present this week.
Dorothy Roman, aka Aunty Doris, is 101, and her life was made a little easier when she was handed a brand-new wheelchair on Tuesday evening after suffering injuries from a fall.
The ouma will turn 102 next month.
Bonteheuwel Ward Councillor Angus McKenzie says: “I met Dorothy Roman about two years ago when I attended her 100th birthday.
“I’ve been in contact with her and her family ever since, as she is the oldest female in the Bonteheuwel area.”
McKenzie initiated plans to make life a bit easier for Doris after he received news that she was unable to move around.
“I was made aware over the last few days that she is struggling to move around, not being able to get from point A to B.
“The family was in need of a wheelchair for her so I quickly put some plans together and engaged with the Mayor of the City of Cape Town (Dan Plato). We managed to get her a wheelchair,” says McKenzie.
GIFTED: Ward Councillor Angus McKenzie with Aunty Doris, 101
Granddaughter Rene Jumat says her granny recently fell on two occasions.
“She recently fell twice, which caused her to bleed as a result of a bladder infection. Other than that, she has overcome diabetes and currently has no chronic illnesses,” says Rene.
She says her granny is usually a “giver”, and this is why she deserved this gift.
“She will always give her last to anyone in need, never mind who the person is. Her doors are always open.
“She loved reading romance novels. We used to exchange books at times, so we would always discuss the stories.”
She says her ouma is still very active and enjoys the outdoors.
“She enjoys going to church, she’s very spiritual and always praying.
“On weekends, she comes to visit me, then we’ll take her for a drive to the beach. A hundred years old or not, she loves to go out!”
The granny, who doesn’t speak much, says she prefers sitting outside in her wheelchair instead of being in the house.
“I go outside and sit in the sun and I can move between rooms for now, until I get better,” says the oulikke ouma.