A 100-year-old member of the St Vincent de Paul society is following in the footsteps of Captain Sir Tom Moore to raise money for those without water.
Great grandmother Pat Bishop is celebrating her 100th birthday by walking 500 steps every day to raise money for families without access to clean water.
Mrs Bishop is a member of the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) volunteering charity, and was inspired by the example of fellow centenarian Captain Sir Tom Moore to take up CAFOD’s Walk for Water Campaign.
She said: “I?felt so awful inside?when I thought about how badly people were suffering?because they did not have clean water readily available. When I turned 100 years old people would ask what I'd like for my birthday. At my age, I don't need anything,?so?I?would be delighted if people could sponsor me as their gift.”
Mrs Bishop lives with her?daughter and son-in-law in Poole, Dorset, after retiring 35 years ago. She’s an active tap-dancer, and a founding member and former director of the drama and arts department at Bath University.
These days getting around is becoming more of a struggle. She said: “500 steps might not seem far,?and a few years ago I would have signed up to do 10,000 steps a day. However, nowadays 500 steps will still be a challenge, particularly as the weather is rather chilly.”??
Pat is a dedicated volunteer, who still helps out at the St Mary’s Church tea-and-chat afternoons for retired people, and is described by fellow members of her SVP group as “strong, determined and always keen to get involved and happy to help and encourage others.”
Like so many who commit themselves to charitable ventures, Pat was herself the recipient of charity at an earlier stage in her life, when as a child her family became homeless. As Pat explained: “When my father lost his job, two very good family friends kindly offered to take us into their home. They did this immediately and didn’t want anything in return for their generosity,?they were just pleased to have us with them.”?
Her daughter, Mandy Shanahan, added: “Mum is an amazing woman who has inspired so many people through her life. Her faith has always been important to her and she was delighted to find a strong SVP at St Mary's. She has always made time for other people no matter how busy her life has been. She is an inspiration.”
?Those interested in donating to the campaign can find it here.
Loading ...
