Christina's Final Gift to Mayflower Leaves a Legacy of Hope and Comfort

Christina’s Generosity Brings Comfort, Mobility, and Empowerment

Christina, renowned for her thoughtful generosity and eye for creating spectacular gardens, has extended her kindness to the residents of Rasmussen House in Mayflower Brighton.

This time, her gift came in the form of vital mobility equipment – an Arjo ‘Sara Stedy’ and an Aspire ‘Shell Chair’ - designed to enhance the comfort, dignity, and empowerment of aged care residents.

The donation, valued at more than $6,000, reflects Christina’s deep commitment to making a positive difference.

The Arjo Sara Stedy, a non-powered device, facilitates safe and efficient sit-to-stand transfers, giving residents a sense of stability and dignity. Alma, the first resident to use the device, expressed her gratitude: “To stand has been very beneficial for me. After nearly three years since my accident in Italy, it feels wonderful to stand again.”

The Aspire Shell Chair provides comfortable mobile seating that encourages social interaction and accessibility. Both items are aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and easing the workload of carers.

Inspired by Personal Experience

Christina’s motivation for the donation stems from personal experience. Recalling a time when she was lifted with an outdated machine at another facility after breaking her ankle, she said, “It was extremely intimidating, and I wanted to provide something more user-friendly and comfortable for Rasmussen House residents. I see a need, and when I see a need, I discuss it with a team leader,” says Christina, “I discussed it with team leader and nurse Saul and my nephew Greg, as to what we thought could be useful for Rasmussen House. That experience inspired me to donate something that would improve the experience for others here.”

A Legacy of Giving

Christina’s donation is also driven by her desire to leave a meaningful legacy. “Another reason I do this is because I can’t do the things I used to love, like going out and travelling. So, I want to use my money to help people instead,” she shared.

She reflected on how her health challenges have shaped her perspective: “My core motivation is leaving a legacy. I know my time is getting late, and my health is deteriorating. That motivates me to do something while I still can, with the assistance of my nephew Greg. My nephew has helped me greatly.”

Honouring Family Connections

Christina’s late sister also played a role in inspiring her generosity. “My sister had a ‘Princess Chair’, and I thought it would be nice for Rasmussen House to have one,” she explained. In consultation with Team Leader and Registered Nurse Saul, Christina decided to donate the Aspire Shell Chair, as a modern and comfortable seating solution that allows residents to participate in meals, games, and activities.

A Testament and Life of Selflessness

Christina has been living with leukaemia, a condition she has battled since moving into Rasmussen House at Mayflower Brighton. Despite her health challenges, she continues to channel her energy into making a meaningful difference for others.

Her heartfelt generosity reflects her enduring compassion and commitment to improving the lives of aged care residents. By providing modern, user-friendly equipment, Christina’s generous gift not only helps to enhance physical comfort but also fosters empowerment and independence for those at Mayflower Brighton.

“I wanted to create something positive out of my experiences,” Christina said. “It was my original need that activated my heart to donate these. I hope my contributions bring comfort and joy to the residents and make their time here better.”

Christina’s donation is a story of selflessness, inspired by a vision for a brighter, more inclusive future in aged care. Through her actions, she inspires others to find ways to contribute meaningfully and leave a lasting legacy.

If you would like to join Christina in making a meaningful difference, please find more information on our donations page.

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Christina leaves us with these thoughtful words:

Afterglow
"I'd like my memory of me to be a happy one,
I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when day is gone.
I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times, and laughing times, and bright sunny days.
I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun,
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done."

Christina, you have certainly left an afterglow. You will not be forgotten. 

Thank you for everything.

Rest in Peace.

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