GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Across South Africa people sat, phones in hand, fingers at the ready, waiting. When the clock struck 19:00, the bidding began. The event on 1 February where people from all over came together in such an unconventional way was a WhatsApp auction for the benefit of the Living Cornerstone Alzheimer's Residence (TLC) in Sedgefield. 

The auction raised about R105 000.

Magda Verture, the newly elected chairperson of TLC, said the Western Province Parrot Breeders Association decided to have an auction to help raise funds. "It started with one single bird, a Quacker parakeet, being auctioned. By 19:30 numerous birds have been sold and it escalated until the bidding closed at 20:00. The highest price paid was for a pair of Australian Kings to the tune of R12 500."

Verture said many of the breeders are well acquainted with Alzheimer's and its devastating impact on families, and know that there is no cure yet. And so, the auction was opened again on Saturday 2 February from 19:00 to 20:00. Many who did not bid on the birds made donations to this deserving cause.

Inspiration
Verture said the dedication of Gilda Scammell, founder and a caregiver at the home, is a huge inspiration and many look up to her. Scammell saw the need of people with Alzheimer's who cannot afford private care due to financial constraints, and started TLC in 2008. 

"Those caught in the grips of Alzheimer's lose not only their memories, but in the later stages are entirely dependent on family. TLC offers a loving environment for every resident," said Verture. "Knowing this, the members bid and did so generously."

When Scammell heard how much funds had been raised, she burst out crying. "I was in complete shock. It exceeded my expectations," she said. The money raised affirms the saying Scammell lives by: "Hope is the last thing that ever dies". Though Alzheimer's is a devastating disease with no cure in sight, she believes that if hope remains, anything can be accomplished.

Gilda Scammell, one of the founders of TLC, was over the moon about the big amount of money raised with the bird auction.

It was hope that inspired her and so many others in Sedgefield to give TLC of their time, energy and resources, said Verture. "Never underestimate your ability to affect the life of another person positively."

For more information about TLC Alzheimer's residences contact Scammell at info@thelivingcornerstone.co.za.

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