Joe Gilson Mobility Scheme hits 100th scooter donation landmark
Carol Gilson hands over the 100th scooter to Lyn Shaw. Ref mhh 4077-12-15TI 100TH. Picture: Terry Ife - Credit: Archant
The scheme was launched after Joe, Carol’s husband of 15 years, died of cancer in 2008.
The founder of Honiton’s Joe Gilson Mobility Scheme has given away her 100th scooter - to the same woman she donated her very first to.
Carol Gilson, of Orchard Way, said she could not believe it when she saw that Lyn Shaw would be the recipient of her 100th machine, six years on from donating her late husband’s scooter to the Honiton mum-of-four.
“Lyn called me up and said ‘Carol, my scooter has failed’,” she told the Herald.
“I gave her one in my garage and could not believe it when I realised she was the 100th person to receive a scooter!”
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But it’s not just Lyn who has benefited from Carol’s generosity - many more are living improved lives because of her.
There are also currently eight more on the waiting list to benefit from the scheme, which was launched after Joe, Carol’s husband of 15 years, died of cancer in 2008.
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Carol says he is the inspiration behind her scheme.
“When he died, I was left with his scooter,” she said.
“I got hold of the Herald and put a piece in saying the scooter is free for whoever writes the best story about why they needed a scooter.”
Following the article, 38 people responded – making Carol realise the local need of disabled, terminally ill and mobility-affected residents in town.
And still to this day, the scheme continues to flourish, providing people in Honiton and surrounding areas with a mobility lifeline.
But Carol said she does not regard herself as a local hero, despite the heartfelt thanks she gets from those she helps.
“My fondest memories are seeing people going down the high street saying ‘hi Carol’ on their scooters,” she added.
“They get out of their home and have dignity and pride.”
Carol is now on the lookout for a driver to help her pick up and drop off donated scooters (petrol will be covered).
Anyone who can help Carol should call her on 01404 43341.
