Hat Off To You, Maureen

You may have seen this gorgeous, 94 year old, Melbourne woman on the televised news not long ago, as a band of nurses formed a guard of honor and cheered as she left the Austin Hospital, wheeled out by her 69 year old son, John, her primary carer.

This uplifting story has gone viral around the globe and our little community in country Victoria is claiming Mrs Appleby as our own and are proud and in awe of her strength to defy all odds by defeating Covid-19.

Maureen is a great, great grandmother, related to many family members residing in Tarwin Lower and surrounds. One beloved niece, who thinks of Maureen as her inspiration, is Michelle Burggraaff of Tarwin Lower.

Michelle's mother, Greta, Maureen and their two brothers, Frank and Jack, shared a special connection, which filtered down through their families, warranting many enjoyable, meaningful gatherings. Sadly many loved ones have passed on since then, but Michelle and Maureen continue to share a loving bond.

Maureen resides with John in her family home in Rosanna. One night a few weeks ago, the same evening John started to feel unwell, Maureen had an unfortunate fall and was taken to North Park Private Hospital in Bundoora where it was confirmed she'd broken four ribs.

After a week, Maureen moved on to a rehabilitation centre in Ivanhoe. During her third night there, she also began to feel unwell and was transferred to The Austin Hospital. After vigorous testing, she was diagnosed with the dreaded Covid-19 virus.

In the meantime John also tested positive for the virus and after a couple of isolated days at home, he too was admitted to The Austin, where he and Maureen shared a room during his second night of stay.

Thankfully, John recovered quickly and was discharged after two days, while Maureen was kept for five days due to her injuries.

Both are now in good spirits at home, although Maureen is weary of all the media attention she's attracting. However, she's happy to comply knowing the public appreciates her uplifting story during such challenging times.

This lovely lady is described as deserving, caring and honorable with a wonderful sense of humor. She's extremely accommodating and family orientated, as well as a staunch Carlton Football Club supporter, as her father, Frank Martin, was a Carlton premiership player and proudly wore the number 25.

Well done Maureen, great news!

                                                                (Credit 7 News)