Wishes come true at Benetas
After spending years knitting jumpers for fairy penguins, dedicated Mornington local Betty Bilson has finally come face to face with her first penguin, thanks to not for profit aged care provider Benetas’ One Wish program.
Benetas home care client, Betty Bilson (right), with Benetas client advisor, Val Lyons.
Amazingly, Ms Bilson has dedicated so much of her time for the penguins affected by oil spills, but had never seen one in real life.
That all changed when she visited the Phillip Island Nature Park on 20 March.
Ms Bilson, who lives independently at home in Mornington with the assistance of Benetas, said the opportunity was a dream come true.
“It was absolutely amazing, I’m still coming back down to earth. It was the best night I’ve ever had; I just can’t believe it!” she says.
Ms Bilson and the two Benetas staff members who accompanied her picked the perfect night as they were joined by 938 penguins.
Benetas client advisor, Val Lyons, nominated Betty for the ‘One Wish’ and said Betty is the most selfless lady, who will do anything for anyone.
“She was thrilled when I told her, crying and asking what she had done to be offered something so wonderful,” Ms Lyons says.
It was a late night for the group, not getting back to Mornington until midnight.
Ms Lyons thought Ms Bilson would fall asleep on the drive home but she couldn’t as she was too excited from the night’s
events.
“I just couldn’t believe how small they were; seeing their white bellies waddle out of the water was something I will remember forever. I could write a book on it!” Ms Bilson says.
The Benetas One Wish program provides special one off wishes to Benetas clients and residents, which fulfil a lifelong desire or dream. Benetas One Wish continues to enjoy the support of residents, their friends and family as well as the wider community including through generous donations.
Find out more information or help support Benetas One Wish program.
