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Source: ONE News -
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Shirley Blackwell hates the limelight. She was quite bewildered when we turned up to tell her story. She thinks she just does what anyone would do in her position.
Shirley's a volunteer at the children's ward at Whangarei hospital.
"I just love kids, they are just special butt they don't tell lies, they tell you straight up what they want and don't want," says Shirley.
The nurses know this, they made a long list, 14 points, of what she's done, like making the cushion covers, the baking and they're still taking about the time she brought in livestock.
One day Shirley bought in a lamb to show the children. She put a disposable nappy on it so it wouldn't do anything in the play room.
Shirley's a farmer. She does that with kids too. But childern are not the reason she's been nominated as Good Sort.
Her husband, Norman, was the one who nominated her.
"I saw it on the news and it's something I can do, write a letter and Shirley has done so much sticking with me," says Norman.
Norman Blackwell is tetraplegic, he can only use part of his right arm, so writing to us took time.
Norman wanted us to meet Shirley because 17-years-ago, when he lost mobility, as well as looking after the grandkids and the children at Whangarei hospital, Shirley took over the farm.
But then that's Shirley Blackwell. No fuss, no nonense and no motorbikes, she usually walks to where she wants to go.
"I'm probably the richest person in the world, got everything I want. The kids are all heatlty, the grandkids are good, Norm might not be able to get out and walk, but he's still there," says Shirley.
It's just as well there aren't too many Shirley Blackwell's around, the nurses would have weight issues with all the home baking.
And they would certainly need a bigger wall for decorating in the play room.
Do you know someone who is a "Good Sort" that ONE News should talk to? Click here to nominate them here
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Add a Comment:
Post new commentRuralWomenNZ said on 2011-06-17 @ 09:09 NZDT: Report abusive post
Hey! We thought you might be interested in the aftersocks projects that will raise money for the Chch Mayoral Fund. The idea came from two Cantabrian sisters called Justine and Jo Ottey. Check out the website www.aftersocks.co.nz from the 20th June or www.facebook.com/aftersocks.
Jazz1 said on 2010-05-24 @ 14:59 NZDT: Report abusive post
Love this segment! What great people!
margi21 said on 2010-04-07 @ 21:36 NZDT: Report abusive post
I have this guys heart i would be dead if it wasent for him , thanks barry !
Jankeal said on 2009-12-25 @ 23:57 NZDT: Report abusive post
Tim is my father and i'd just like to say that i'm proud of what he does bringing happiness to others lives and yet still finds time to talk and see his grandchildren. For a man who's had it rough the last 2-3 years it hasn't slowed him down and he still has time for everyone. Good on you dad/Pop!
TheHoltens said on 2009-12-21 @ 11:34 NZDT: Report abusive post
The piece about Mark Granthams brought tears to my eyes. What an inspirational young man. Has made me look at myself and realise what little I do for the wider community. Thanks Mark :)