REAL LIVES
Loving And Giving Through Lockdown Norfolk journalist, Sandie Shirley, spotlights the inspiring stories of men and women from the region and beyond that have seen them reach for victory. For more stories visit Facebook: Refreshing Waters Christian Media.
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ockdown, personal loss and suffering have not thwarted the spirits of Bertie Emes-Ellis, who simply lives to give. Her smile is wide; her eyes gleam and there is an endless stream of hope and love pouring from her heart. Although Bertie has special needs and resides in supported living accommodation in Norwich, the challenges throughout her 31 years have been borne with inner strength and resource. It has given rise to joy on the outside and a childlike faith within. She has put her life on hold to comfort and encourage young and old, including three close friends who have died during or before the COVID-19 pandemic. Her mother, Sallie Wright, founder of a Norfolk children’s charity, takes up the story: “I have watched as Bertie interacts with people as a willing vessel of love. She laid down her life caring for dying friends, while feeling the full impact of lockdown for five months last year, unable to see family or interact with outside activities — although she still attended online church meetings. “Bertie was born with Down’s Syndrome, and although she has learning difficulties she is receptive, communicative and her spirit is not disabled, and we should not limit those like her because of what we see or think. "Bertie (short for Roberta after
her maternal grandmother) is a triplet with five siblings, including a brother who also has special needs. Growing up in a home of love over trial and faith over fear has been an empowering building block for her life. “She now lives in a bungalow in the community alongside the elderly and vulnerable and raises staff morale. She is known to be bright and happy: dancing and twirling; singing loud songs; saying loud prayers and spreading faith. “Her compassion was evident as two housemates lived out their last days. She prayed, cared, and gave. With hope and happiness, she wholeheartedly shared her simple faith with its values and truths and through bible stories and DVDs. Staff and families caring for one of her late friends said Bertie made a difference to their lives during this time and throughout the pandemic lockdown. “Her compassion and love have been there since childhood. Growing up in church she would always display kindness and acceptance; there were no judgments or reservations. When the drug addicts and homeless people came and sat in the back pews, Bertie readily embraced them with huge hugs which had a big impact on them. “I knew there would be difficulties, especially with education needs, but after her
Bertie Emes-Ellis
birth I read: ‘Angel Unaware.’ The book tells the compelling story of Roy Rogers (known as the ‘Lone Ranger’ in the fifties) and his wife Dale, whose daughter was born with serious health issues as well as Down’s Syndrome. “It is a timeless message of hope and faith for those caring for special children with various special needs and has sold over 500,000 copies since it was first published in 1953. It has provided enlightenment, wisdom and a growing sensitivity to the challenges, dreams and milestones that have been part of Bertie’s path and for those like her.” ‘Angel Unaware’ by Dale Evans Rogers is available from Amazon.
