Several weeks ago we were extended an invitation by Ryder-Cheshire member Trish Frith to visit her in Willunga, South Australia. Trish was so excited as Sunanda the daughter of Dhanvir Sing, who she sponsored some fifty years ago was to be staying with her and her family.
Dhanvir, Sunanda’s father, began his life in Raphael at The Little White House which was originally white, now is red, but is still nostalgically called, The Little White House. His parents lived in Shiv Sadan. His mother, known as Grannie to her granddaughters. passed away in 2000. A dear friend took over her role and as Sunanda explained, ‘We also call her Grannie and she brought us up with love and affection.’
Dhanvir studied well, being a happy mischievous little boy at Raphael. Upon completing his studies he met a man who was a highly accomplished mechanic and because Dhanvir had a great interest in anything mechanical he took him on as his apprentice.
Dhanvir is still working as a mechanic. He will turn 60 next year.
Dhanvir met his wife, Sushila, at Raphael. Their two daughters grew up in Raphael. The older, Sunanda, is a nurse and the younger, Sonali, is a physiotherapist.
We had such a lovely time meeting Sunanda with Trish and her family for coffee at Port Norlunga. Sunanda was one week in South Australia as that is the only time she had for a holiday.
Trish has made several trips to India to meet with Dhanvir and his family. They affectionately call her Grannie also.
Sunanda told us that Raphael means so much to her father, ‘My father is so grateful to Trish for sponsoring him at Raphael. She was his only sponsor.’ Sponsoring a person or a program ‘for the relief of suffering without discrimination’ certainly makes such a difference to the lives of those who need this support and Dhanvir is certainly one example of this.
Dianne McGrath and Terry Warr written with permission from Sunanda and her father.