Do you need help after recovering from surgery? Are you in need of medical equipment and not sure where to find it and are interested in borrowing a piece of equipment?  Well look no further!  A neighbour in our own community lends out mobility equipment and we happen to think this woman is pretty great.

We are so pleased to introduce you to Porcia Perre who is not only a resident of Lagoon City but she also volunteers countless hours by offering a lending program for mobility equipment to people in need. We love to get to know the person behind the passion, and we were thrilled to ask Porcia a few questions in our Community Spotlight.

When did you move to Lagoon City and what do you love about residing here?

I moved to Lagoon City from Mississauga in January 1999 for employment.  From my living room I watched the snowmobilers and cross-country skiers using the frozen lagoons as their trails.  There were interesting birds and wildlife.  I knew that this was the place where I wanted to live permanently.

When did you first become interested in helping people and where did the idea of lending mobility equipment come from?

After my retirement 16 years ago, I had surgery on my foot.  I purchased a special medical boot to wear during my recovery.  Very soon afterwards, my neighbour had surgery on her foot and I loaned her my boot to wear instead of her buying one.  She appreciated the help and told me so.  Thus, I reached out to my neighbours for equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, commodes, bath chairs ect.  My wonderful neighbours supportively donated to me so that, together we could help other neighbours and friends during their recovery.

You give back to our community in such a unique way and we are so thankful to have you.  Is there anyone else that deserves recognition within your program?

I receive all the thanks and kudos but the donors of this equipment must receive our heartfelt gratitude.

Is there a cost involved when borrowing a piece of equipment?

The equipment is loaned out on a temporary basis, free of charge.

What do you hope people gain from using your lending program?

My hope is to reduce the overwhelming cost of renting equipment or the influx of so much equipment in one area, and my reward is knowing I’ve helped someone get better.

Do you take donations of medical equipment that people no longer use and if so, how does one go about donating their used equipment?

I accept all donations of equipment.  Repairing medical equipment is very expensive so if an item is donated and not in the best shape, I remove the parts that can repair another piece of equipment and then dispose of the old frame.  All donations are helpful and appreciated.

What does Porcia like to do in her free time?

Spare time?  I’m retired and busier now more than ever!  I play cards, play and teach mah jongg and, of course, lend out mobility and medical equipment.

If you had any words of encouragement or advice for someone that may be thinking of volunteering or giving back to their community what would it be?

Your reward is knowing that you have helped someone.

Since this article was written, Porcia has handed this amazing resource over to Maureen McGarrity who is also a resident in Lagoon City.

We are so grateful to have both Maureen and Porcia living in our community and thank them for their continuous hard work.