Myrna Turner may be tiny and nearly 90 years young, but her mind and spirit is that of a woman in her twenties.
For just over two years, Myrna and her Avivo support worker have made their weekly pilgrimage to Roleystone Village – Myrna simply wouldn’t entertain going anywhere else.
“The community spirit and connections she has with the shopkeepers and staff is so unique, we could never deny her or pass up the opportunity to watch her in action,” Avivo Team Kelmscott’s Nicole Griffiths said.
“Her mind is so sharp; she is quick to remind you to stay safe, while complimenting you, following the delivery of a sassy insult – all in good fun, of course.
“But the staff in the bank, pharmacy, post office and IGA all give as good as they get. Interactions like this must only occur at Roleystone Village, I’ve never heard laughter like this anywhere else.”
But grocery shopping was becoming a little hard to navigate, with Myrna’s support worker struggling to pull a trolley in one hand and steer Myrna with the other.
The pair approached IGA manager, Jack, to see if he’d consider purchasing a modified shopping trolley that could attach to wheelchairs.
“Not quite knowing what I was talking about or asking for, Jack began to make enquiries,” Nicole said.
And he was true to his word; weeks later the pair saw him beaming as he walked towards them – new trolly in tow.
“Shopping from now on is going to be so much easier, all because of Jack,” Nicole said.
“He’s given great customer service, Myrna peace of mind knowing that her support workers aren’t struggling, and for me, instant relief knowing that I don’t have to wonder if today would be the day I’d steer us right in to the middle of a display, creating absolute carnage.
“It’s easy to get caught up in Myrna Turner. She’s a lady with a little bit of everything. She loves Roleystone Village, Roleystone Village loves her. And I love that I get to witness it.”
