On Tuesday, 20 December, South Africa’s social media community came together to make this Christmas a very special one for Bernadette Francois.
Francois posted the following message on the Facebook group, I Know A Guy:
“Hi ‘I Know a Guyers’, I am a paraplegic and I use a power wheelchair.”
“My charger burned out last night and that puts me in a huge predicament as I am now unable to use my wheelchair. I want to know if there is anybody out there who may have a spare charger to sell or donate as the price of a new one is totally out of my budget. It is a CE Mobility Power wheelchair.
“Or if anyone knows a guy (or is a guy) who may be able to repair my existing one!”
The group is used as a network of influencers, employers and freelancers who want to share opportunities and recommend the best person for the job. People post on the group what they are looking for (such as a hairdresser or electrician) and fellow group members recommend who they think is the best ‘guy’ for the job.
Within the space of an hour, Francois’ post had over 50 comments, with people offering to repair the charger, lend a wheelchair or donate towards the R1548 needed to buy a new charger.
Before the end of the day, people had donated enough for Francois to purchase a new charger for her wheelchair. She posted the following response:
“Oh My Gosh! You guys are so amazing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
“I hope to have the charger delivered tomorrow so that I can be mobile again. I would otherwise have to rely solely on my 11 year old to do everything.”
“I am overwhelmed by your generosity!!! I cannot express my gratitude enough. May God Bless each and every one of you!!!”
All the comments on the post were filled with love and hope – a true Christmas miracle – proving that the world (and specifically South Africa) is full of good people.
Sharne’ Cave Gerhardt commented: “WOW! Incredible. Human compassion <3 Wow!!!! Its incredible to see. Bernadette Francois Merry Christmas Lovely lady! And I am so happy to hear you will be mobile <3 May God bless ALL the people who helped here! And may God Bless YOU!”
Dianne Bayley added: “This post proves what we all know in our hearts – South Africans do love each other and ALWAYS shine through for each other when we need to. SO proud of this community – you ROCK, every one of you. xx”
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