Funding For A Vehicle

Hi there ...

My story begins at age nine - 50 years ago. I contracted rheumatic fever and it nearly killed me. Fortunately I survived and have had a fulfilling life thus far although, as with most lives, I have had my share of trials and tribulations. Very few escape some sort of suffering in this world and that is humanities shared experience.

The results of rheumatic fever in my case was scaring in the heart valves which can leave one susceptible to fatigue and infection. The micro bugs that most people's systems reject easily find a place to lodge and flourish in scared tissue. So in 1980, while I was working in Australia, I got an infection that required open heart surgery and the replacement of my aortic and mitral valves. Life went on and as the years rolled by, I had to have operations for similar reasons - repairs and replacements due to infection and other bits and pieces added like a pacemaker. The result is that I have had seven open-heart surgeries to date - the last one being just five years ago.

Although quite healthy in many ways and very well looked after these days, my body suffers fatigue and certain physical limitations. I do my best and am very fortunate to have the support of a permanent government medical benefit. It allows me to function and to offer what I can to the community in terms of volunteering some of my time to serve different organisations in various roles. The reason I am telling you this story is not to solicit pity, but to give a sense of how I use my time as a beneficiary. So here is the second part of my story ...

In 1984, following my second open heart surgery, I learned the art of meditation. Inspired by the results that I saw in my own life, I decided to share meditation with others. The classes that I went to initially were free of charge, and I have never charged for the many classes that I have given over the years either. I enjoy giving these classes, the people that attend generally enjoy and benefit from my classes, and I will continue to offer them as long as I am able. I do not teach religion but a universal approach to meditation that seems to inspire those who attend my classes.

Since moving to Taupō from Christchurch in 2016, I have been offering free meditation classes in Taupō and other towns throughout the central North Island. I also visit Tongariro prison near Turangi each Friday to facilitate meditation sessions for the men there as a volunteer. And this is where the need for a new vehicle comes in.

The problem that I have is that my 20-year-old car is beginning to become problematic and expensive to run and repair, so I need an upgrade! I am not in a position to purchase another second-hand car so I am turning to crowd-funding to see if the community is inspired to help out. I do get support from friends and family from time-to-time, which helps me to pay for venues, printing and travel expenses, but a second-hand vehicle is a big purchase and I would be very grateful for any assistance. Can you help me?

Thank you for reading my story and, if you are inspired and able to, thank you for your kind assistance. It will help me greatly to continue making a positive contribution to the world.