The neighbourhood watch, community policing forum (CPF) and police in Goodwood came to the aid of an elderly woman who had suffered a stroke and heart attack and could not contact anyone or get out of her house. She was found on the floor of her bedroom on Wednesday 10 November.
John Ross, the chair of Goodwood CPF, said the police and Goodwood Neighbourhood Watch were immediately contacted after Noleen Kempen, a Goodwood resident, informed the CPF that she was concerned about the well-being of her elderly friend whom she was unable to contact for a few days.
“Patrollers Wouter Immelman, Vincent Lavagna, Christene Carswell, Marcell Terblanche and Tiaan de Jager responded and met Kempen at the address. After being unable to contact the homeowner, it was decided to gain forced entry.”
Ross said after entering the home, the elderly homeowner was found on the floor of her bedroom. Medical assistance was summoned, and she was transported by ambulance to the hospital. It was established that she suffered a stroke and a heart attack.
Ross said he is 100% sure that the actions of the neighbourhood watch and Kempen have saved her life. “I salute the actions of all the responders, and this again highlights the value of a well-organised and committed neighbourhood watch.
“Goodwood CPF will monitor the patient’s progress and assist where possible,” Ross said.
Leona van Wyk, chair of Goodwood Neighbourhood Watch, said she is extremely glad that their patrollers, who are so passionate about serving the community, could be of assistance.
“I am grateful that they most certainly assisted in saving this lady’s life. The Goodwood Neighbourhood Watch serves this community with pride, passion, and dignity.
According to Kempen the elderly lady who is in her 70s, is recovering well and remains in the hospital.
