MDF Newsletter Content Issue 46 April 2015

Cape Branch
A TRIBUTE TO
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
We looked at all manner of fundraising activities but our then
committee members, of which I was one, were very “lig in die
broek” as they say in Afrikaans as regards fundraising, meaning
inept and naïve. We had little idea of how to fundraise, and
although we certainly tried our best, funds were meagre to say
the least.
Out of the blue the Harley-Davidson Club of Cape Town approached
us as they wished to take on muscular dystrophy as a
charitable initiative, as they do in the United States of America.
The Harley-Davidson Club of Cape Town really put us on the map
when we were presented with our fi rst REAL donation of R20 000
from their fundraising effort, which was an annual ball.
That money enabled us to purchase our very fi rst motorised
wheelchair for a young man with spinal muscular atrophy by the
name of Dylan Thomas. That wheelchair allowed him to further his
studies. He was so very proud of that chair and the freedom it gave
him to realise his dream of studying.
1974–2014
In 2014 the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of South Africa celebrated its
fortieth year in South Africa, whilst in Cape Town we celebrated the 20th
anniversary of the Cape Branch. Looking back on our very humble beginnings,
of holding meetings in various committee members’ homes, we
have really seen amazing growth of the Cape Branch to what it is today.
Our branch started with absolutely nothing but a fi erce determination to
assist folk diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and their families, as there
was absolutely no support or assistance offered to muscular dystrophy
sufferers in South Africa in any way. The Cape Branch is proud to say that
it set the standard for the structure in place in South Africa today.
That motorised wheelchair became the benchmark of our activities in providing “real” assistance to our members.
The standard was then set that motorised wheelchairs were essential to allow folk to be independent and develop
leadership skills for future study and careers.
Our young Duchenne boys needed motorised wheelchairs, and so did our young girls and boys with spinal muscular
atrophy. Whatever mechanical means of transport or other aids they needed, we endeavoured to supply.
Over the years Paula Lehman undertook mammoth fundraising
events, and thousands of rands were raised for our children
and adults in need. She was later assisted by Julie Knutzen
and Liz Immelman.
Harley-Davidson has always been incredibly generous towards
our muscular dystrophy family in Cape Town – much to the envy
of our two other branches in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Gauteng. You
have helped so many, many less fortunate people to live more
comfortable, fulfi lled lives, integrated within their families and
the community at large.
On behalf of everyone you have assisted, may you be greatly
blessed.
We thank you.
44
Win van der Berg
Chairperson – Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Cape Branch