Cake and koeksisters won’t cure Covid-19, but these sweet treats, dished up by Carolyn Dudgeon, of Observatory, are boosting the morale of front-line health-care workers.
She started her “Cupcakes for the Covid-19 Heroes” project last April while homeschooling a physician’s children.
“I was talking to the physician about how hard things got in the hospital, and he said that even small things, like having juice and treats for medical staff, can make a difference, as they don’t have much time for breaks.”
Ms Dudgeon used her neighbourhood WhatsApp group and Facebook to promote her campaign.
“Through the power of social media, we have been receiving cupcakes, muffins, biscuits, banana breads, juice boxes, coffee tins, long-life milks and cash donations from all over Cape Town.”
She added: “Even a resident from Hout Bay, whose son celebrated his third birthday, delivered cupcakes for the front-line heroes.”
She and volunteers have supported Groote Schuur, New Somerset, Brackengate, Alexandra and Gugulethu hospitals, delivering 100 to 500 treats a week.
“We are trying to send goodies two or three times a week, and we try not to send less than 100 at a time, which covers the staff on one shift.”
Hospital staff pick up the goodies from Ms Dudgeon’s Observatory home.
“I was at home with the virus in December,” she said. “During that time, I lost a friend due to the virus, and I had another good friend in hospital who is now still recovering, but home. I realised that the impact of the second wave was hitting much harder than the first.”
She had noticed how many people had clapped and cheered for the front-line workers during the first-wave and she had wanted to do something similar to show appreciation.
“I figured the least we could do now was to try and take them a little encouragement and remind them that their communities are still clapping for them and that we are grateful for them still putting their lives on the line for us.”
Groote Schuur Hospital spokesman Alaric Jacobs said they were very grateful for all community support. “All the contributions make a difference to put a smile on the faces during these difficult times.”
To support Ms Dudgeon’s campaign, visit her Facebook page or Instagram page at @mrscarolyndudgeon or WhatsApp her at 072 339 5773.
