“I learnt at an early age that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and I’ve tried to live like that.”
So says Annette Kirwood, a passionate supporter of Carinity. She donates to Carinity regularly – often each month.
“I’ve had a wonderful life and I feel very blessed. I need to give back what I’ve been given. Every little bit helps,” she explains.
Annette has a long association with Carinity. Her grandfather, Ernest Kirwood, was one of the early residents of the Clifford House aged care home in Brisbane in the early-1950s.
Annette is particularly inspired to support Carinity Colthup Manor aged care in Ipswich. Her great friend, former workmate and housemate, Marg Elvery, moved there two years ago after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
The former nurses once lived together in a flat on the Colthup Manor premises and walked to nearby Ipswich Hospital for work. As members of the Bella Nova Singers, they sang to Colthup Manor residents.
Now Annette visits Marg every day in Colthup Manor’s memory support unit which provides specialist care for residents living with conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
“I’ve been able to see the care that Marg has received, and it has been very good. The staff are so patient and they manage Marg and her condition just wonderfully,” Annette explains.
“I’m so indebted to the staff for the way they look after Marg. They said I can come up here every day and sit with her. I look forward to coming here.”
Annette says donating to Carinity is her way of showing her appreciation for Colthup Manor and its dedicated nurses.
“It’s a way I can express my thanks for the care that they’re giving to Marg, and the support they have given to me. I’ve been accepted as part of the family,” she said.
You can support Carinity by donating online at www.carinity.org.au/donate or phoning 3550 3737.
