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SPANISH TOWN, St Catherine:

Patrick Rhoden knows all too well what it's like not being able to walk. What he has mastered, however, is bringing joy and much needed assistance to those who need it most. That's why his recent donation of three motorised wheelchairs to needy persons with disabilities, was in his opinion, only duty bound.

December 31, 2008 was a special day for 11-year-old Sasha-Gaye Thompson who received a motorised wheelchair after being rendered disabled after a tragic accident at her school on April 19, 2007.

Special day

"I feel very good to know that now I can move around without having the pain in my hands whenever I push my wheelchair to look for my mother. It is really a special day for me and New Year's will never be the same again," said Thompson.

She explained that since her life took that unexpected turn in April 2007, times have been tough. Today, she is looking forward to brighter days.

"I know that the wheelchair will enable me to do far more than I used to and I thank Mr Rhoden for this."

Thompson's views were echoed by Kirkland Thompson (no relation) of Clarendon.

"It was five years ago gunmen held up a gas station that I worked shot me and paralysed me from the waist down. I now sell sweets and other goodies and with this wheelchair, things will work much better," he said after receiving his gift from Rhoden.

For 45-year-old Winsome Beckford, receiving the motorised chair was life-changing. Beckford, who is a reflexologist, masseuse, teacher, writer and caterer, said the new chair has changed her life in a very special way.

Miracle in my life

"I can only say that this will work a miracle in my life and make me more productive. I thank Mr Rhoden for this donation," she said.

The presentation took place at Rhoden's residence in Gutters District, St Catherine. Rhoden, who became ill more than eight years ago and who has been using a wheelchair since then, told The Gleaner that his donation was duty bound.

"It is my duty to touch lives, as I know how it feels to be a disabled person, but this goes to show that when your feet are unable, your mind can put you on top of your game," he said.