Laughter, music and heartfelt tributes set the tone at the Thembalami and Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) Christmas party on December 12, as residents, staff and volunteers came together to celebrate the season.
Social worker Lara Hurwitz says each resident received a placemat featuring their photo and name, captured by a professional photographer who also took individual portraits. “Residents were thrilled to see themselves on the placemats and can’t wait to hang their welcome signs – featuring their portrait and name – on their doors,” she says.
Manager Esme van der Walt opened the festivities with a warm speech. “Today is a day filled with gratitude, togetherness and a reminder of what truly matters. Each of you carries a lifetime of memories, wisdom, and stories that enrich this home every day. Your presence is a gift,” she said.
Esme also acknowledged the MODA residents. “We may communicate differently, but your joy, energy and spirit light up this home. You are an important part of our family, and we celebrate you today with love and gratitude.”
She thanked staff for their dedication, volunteers for their generosity, and everyone who helps create a place of dignity and warmth.
Entertainment was provided by Ruan Tennant, a regular at Thembalami events. “Your music brings joy, energy and a festive spirit to our residents,” Esme said.
A delicious Christmas lunch was served, followed by the presentation of 110 gift bags, donated by Hotel Amenities Suppliers, a division of Bidvest Services, each filled with personal toiletries.
In a touching tribute, a ribbon bearing the names of residents who passed away this year was displayed on a Christmas tree, allowing their memory to be celebrated alongside the festive cheer.
Esme concluded the day with gratitude: “May today remind us that this centre is more than a facility – it is a home built by all of us. A place where every person matters, and where we celebrate life in all its stages, with dignity, respect and love.”
To view more photos, watch the reel on Facebook.
Thembalami manager Esme van der Walt and Matron Violet Ngobeni loaded with gift bags for the residents.
Deputy manager Elize Raath with entertainer Ruan Tennant.
Deputy manager Elize Raath and MODA resident Lesley Nuyten.
Residents Theunis de Bruin and Marianne Venter.
Anette Verskin (MODA resident).
Wim Pieterse, Amanda Diener and Ayanda Matthews from Rand Aid’s head office joined in the festivities.
Stewart Brown.
Ria van der Westhuizen with Heather and Edward Abrams.
Merle and Errol Townsend.
Lyn Cowin, Patrick Mahlelehlele and Kevan Harris.
Jo Bayliss and Maureen Wigoder.
Cecilia Röttcher (MODA resident).
Sydney Le Sueur, Johanna Waldeck, Jossie Jagals and Lydia Elliott, all MODA residents.
Elize Raath (Themablami deputy manager), Takalani Ndou (Thembalami receptionist), Olga Ngobeni (Hotel Amenities Suppliers) and Esme van der Walt (Thembalami deputy manager).
Gone but not forgotten. The names of residents who passed away this year were printed on a ribbon and hung in a Christmas tree as a heartfelt tribute, ensuring their memory shines brightly during the festive season.
The beautifully iced cake that was donated by Michelle Cooke.
