A secondhand audio reader has brought profound joy to Elder’s Voice resident Auntie Elize, an avid reader who has not been able to enjoy books like she once did due to her deteriorating eyesight.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (13 November 2026) – If you’ve ever doubted the value of a secondhand donation, then you need to see this.
A kind donor named Des recently approached Elder’s Voice KZN. The organisation is a Durban-based non-profit that runs shared living homes for vulnerable and destitute older people, and helps them access healthcare, SASSA grants, meals and transport.
Des’ beloved parent had passed on, leaving behind an audio reader – a ‘Talking Book Player’ – that Des had no use for. Instead of storing the device away to collect dust, Des decided to pass it on, knowing that their loved one’s reader, which had served them so well, could do the same for someone else.
And the Elder’s Voice knew exactly who that ‘someone’ was.
Auntie Elize, one of the organisation’s elderly residents, has always loved reading. Sadly, as her eyesight has dwindled over the years, that simple pleasure was no longer possible. The endlessly delightful world of words and stories that she so treasured was one she could no longer escape to.
Until Des’ donation landed in her hands this week.
The device is in good condition and comes with a wonderful selection of books for Auntie Elize to work through. When she received her gift, Auntie Elize could not hold back the happy tears. Watch the heartwarming video below.
“This is why we always say: NEVER underestimate the value of a second-hand donation. What may be sitting unused in your cupboard could be exactly what someone else needs to bring a little happiness back into their life.” the Elder’s Voice wrote, sharing the video.
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One Less Person on Paarl’s Streets, and One Family ReunitedThe organisation thanked Des for her thoughtful donation which has given Auntie Elize the opportunity to enjoy stories and books again.
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