It would seem that there are those who live with the daily challenge of physical disability and the stigma often attached to it, who develop an uncanny ability to effortlessly penetrate the social barriers which usually separate people.
Breaking through these bubbles of private space and polite veneer, the unsuspecting crew members of the John Benn were treated to spontaneous hugs, vigorous handshakes and uninhibited expression of sheer delight and gratitude.
Guiding host of The Featherbed Company on board, Leon Hetjies, agrees: "It was fantastic! One of my best trips ever - even though the passengers where local, they were so involved in the stories I was telling them about the surrounding area. And so openly appreciative. I have never seen anything like it!"
Newly appointed marketing manager at The Featherbed Company, Kyle Barton, gracefully and with humour handled his fair share of unsolicited hugs and blatant admiration.
"I believe it was very successful - it was an eye opener for our staff. To date our employees are still talking about the positive impression that was left behind. Each one of the our guests from Epilepsy SA were overly grateful for the experience and it was shown by the interaction with our staff," he grins.
Barton explains that what turned out as an unforgettable trip for all involved , came about when one of its own staff members was diagnosed with epilepsy two months ago.
"When one of the parents (Toy Black) phoned to enquire about ferry prices we saw it as an opportunity to do some good. Organisations such as Epilepsy SA make it possible to treat this condition, and the support of the locals is critical to the success of these programmes," says Barton.
Dorianne du Toit, the social worker at Epilepsy SA at its residential centre in Knysna, says that the residents still cannot stop gushing about the cruise to The Heads and back.
"For many it was a first - they just cannot stop saying thank you and talking about the incredible experience they had had."
After their trip, the guests all enjoyed a hearty lunch on the outside deck of Cruise Cafe.
Owéna Schutte, director of social development at Epilepsy South Africa, expressed her extreme gratitude on behalf of residents and staff. "They came back jubilant!"
View more photos of the cruise here.
In front is Oliver Heers who treated his friends and the crew of the John Benn to a song. At the back on the left is Anthea van Rensburg and Donavon Black with some of their other friends from Epilepsy SA.
ARTICLE: ANOESCHKA VON MECK
