A Busselton couple’s life has been made a whole lot easier, and comfortable, thanks to a generous donation from the Busselton Lions Club.
Peter and Chrissy Thompson have been supported in various ways by the club since 2000, when Chrissy suffered three aneurysms in a week and was rendered quadriplegic.
Seven months ago, Peter bumped into club president Dawn McCarthy. He mentioned their old vehicle was on the way out, and its air conditioning needed replacing.
When Dawn found out the parts for the car were discontinued, she took the Thompson’s plight to the board and it was decided they would pay for a new vehicle. They received support from the Australian Lions Foundation, who issued a $12,000 grant for the cause.
The Kia Carnival was converted for wheelchair access by Freedom Motors Western Australia. The conversions were covered by the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Peter thanked the club for their ongoing support.
“They have been our right arm from day one,” he said.
“They are just lovely people.
“Sincerely, from the bottom of our heart, thanks you to Dawn and the Lions Club, this is absolutely marvellous.”
Peter said the new wheels allowed Chrissy to see out the windows, something their previous vehicle didn’t offer.
“In the old van when we went to Bunbury hospital she would be asleep by Cape because she was bored,” he said.
“Now, she is bright eyed and bushy tailed, she loves the radio, she can see out, her face says it all.
“I think we are going to have to go for scenic drives every week now.”