IN HONOUR OF THE WOMEN OF TAFTA

During Women’s Day – and the entire month of August – Tafta traditionally celebrates the wonderful contribution made to our organisation by our dedicated and compassionate carers.

But this August is different. These wonderful women have had to dig even deeper as they battle to keep the Coronavirus out of our homes.

Nursing services manager, Sister Keri, describes the last three months as a 'tornado'.

Among the challenges she and all Tafta staff have faced is not having enough hours in the day to do all that needs to be done. This virus has really stretched our resources and staff – many of whom have sacrificed their own family lives and moved into our buildings for prolonged periods to prevent the spread of the virus as they continue to care for frail and dependent elders in need.

We honestly don’t know how we would have coped without the generosity of our donors. THANK YOU for helping to fund PPE and other necessities to keep both staff and residents safe.

My urgent plea is that you continue to support our work with a generous donation. Think of yourself as a trusted partner in this fight. Someone that a physically tired and emotionally drained carer can ‘lean on’ for just a moment as she gathers her strength and resilience to carry on.

Sr Keri belongs to a small close knit family, and being away from them during this time has taken its toll. She has found it especially difficult to explain to her 3 year old daughter why mummy doesn’t rush to hug her when she gets home from work. She must first have a bath and put on fresh clothing, to avoid bringing the virus into her home.

Throughout this challenging time, Keri has been grateful for her supportive community. At least once a week her neighbour calls to check on her and her family.

“I have also been overwhelmed by the spirit of teamwork amongst all Tafta staff,” she says.

“From the first confirmed Covid case in our building, staff from other buildings and areas have come together to provide support and help to one another. Despite having their own work, this selfless act has restored my faith in humanity pulling together in times of crisis.

“I am motivated by the endless gratitude and blessings I receive from our elders. It fills me with a feeling of completeness and encourages me to give 100% of myself and my energy every day.”

Sister Keri tested positive for Covid-19 last week.

This brings to 33 the number of confirmed cases across our various homes (27 elders and six staff members). Sadly, we have also suffered the loss of two elders to date at Tafta on Ridge and Cambridge Gardens. Their passing has affected other elders in the homes tremendously, and our social work team is on standby to help allay their fears and anxieties. We are monitoring those who are positive and working with the Department of Health (DOH) to screen and test others identified as high risk.

Please will you stand alongside our nursing sisters, carers, social workers, kitchen and cleaning staff as they battle on against this deadly virus? Make your donation in honour of these selfless women ... or in celebration of an exceptional woman who has touched your own life. And please continue to keep all of us in your prayers.