“In the 1950s we never saw disabled people on the street; mostly they were stuck at home. It became increasingly Mum’s mission to let them have some fun in their lives. Mum radiated enthusiasm, joy and happiness and took enormous interest in her guests, volunteers and staff. When Dad died, Mum was 62 and she threw herself even more into the Winged Fellowship Trust. It was only when she was 70 that she felt it time to hand over the Chief Executive role, but she continued fundraising into her last few years of life. Mum passionately believed that being in a wheelchair should not stop anyone doing anything. She was adamant that every guest should feel loved and cared for, that their carer would get a break and that everyone should share her passion. Being in the Winged Fellowship Trust wasn’t just a job, it was a transformative experience.”
Elizabeth McKeown Daughter of Joan Brander