…….IS A RECURRING THEME IN THE MANY LETTERS OF APPRECIATION WE RECEIVE FROM RECIPIENTS OF POWERED WHEELCHAIRS.
Since its formation in 1995, Keepers of the Green has been responsible for improving the mobility and quality of life of over 200 individuals throughout the world. Listed below is a selection of responses from some of the people who have benefitted from our activities: "Our sincere thanks for the gift of the powered wheelchair. It will really transform his life and give him back the freedom and independence he has had to do without for so long." Mary Wilson on behalf of her Dad, Jock.
"The powered wheelchair is going to make an enormous difference to my new life post illness and lift the frustration of not being able to get out and about." Sheila Taylor.
"My chair has already had some effect in that I have been able to get to the Montrose Links putting green – and got a hole in one from a sitting position at my first attempt!" Fletcher Richardson.
"Your sterling work does make a huge difference to the quality of life of those like Avril and is a great help to their carers". Les Smart
" . . . . . . it has made my day to day life so much easier for me and my family". David Miller
Another recurring theme is the appreciation of recipients for the wide range of related practical support services offered through "Keepers". This includes home visits and assessment of the needs of each recipient, liaising with local Health Boards and GPs, and maintaining, adapting and, where necessary, repairing wheelchairs to ensure continued care and support.
These services have been carried out since "Keepers" inception by Bob Hopkins who had previously assisted George Makey, Founder of Keepers of the Green, when he organised the Peter Alliss Masters Wheelchair Charity for many years.
Pictured above - Bob's great endeavours were recognised by HRH Prince Andrew, during his term of Captaincy of the R&A Golf Club
Bob retired in August 2010 and was a very well deserving recipient of the George Makey Memorial Trophy for exceptional services to the Charity. Bob's successor is Colin Struthers who has spent over 20 years in medical supply in Scotland. Colin is the MD of Med-Ecosse, a well established (1994) family business based in Loanhead near Edinburgh which offers a friendly and professional service to clients through experienced customer service staff. Colin greatly admired Bob's approach and is honoured to follow in his footsteps with "Keepers".
Presentations of powered wheelchairs, on behalf of Keepers, have taken place at Open Championships at St Andrews (3), Carnoustie (2), Lytham, Muirfield, Sandwich, Troon, Hoylake and Turnberry.
Pictured left - Our Honorary 'First Lady', Mrs Sheila Walker, great great granddaughter of Old Tom Morris has attended most of our presentations and graciously acts as "Starter" for our Spring and Autumn Meetings pictured left with one of our youngest recipients.