To have two benefit functions held in your honour is something very touching, and it certainly bowled over community worker, Christine Bertsch who is recovering from Guillain Barré, a rare neural viral illness that leads to paralysis. Speaking from her hospital bed, in a soft but strong voice, Christine said she would have loved to have been present at both events. But this was not possible as she was transferred to a Port Elizabeth hospital where she is receiving therapy to enable her to recover from (almost, complete) paralysis. Physiotherapist are hoping to help her walk again.

A full concert was held in her honour at the George Arts Theatre on Friday with performance of Innes and Greta Benadé and his family as well as the Outeniqua Primary School Vocal and Instrumental Ensemble who were accompanied by Dr Ronell Van Aswegen on the piano.

Singers:

Innes Benade and Greta Benade [Piano accompaniment] and their 3 sons, Frede, Erik and Anré, Claude Pretorius, Lida de Villiers, Drini Malan-Botha and pianists pupils of Elmien Maré: Robyn Lee Davison, Christy Foord, Danielle Meintjes, Nicole Spence, Monae van Rooyen, and Danielle Vellema; Instrumentalists: Friena Maritz [Piano] and her 3 children, Frieda [Viola], Jan-Karl [Clarinet] and Gretha [Flute], Marliese Goodman [Violin].

All including singer, Claude Pretorius, were enthusiastically applauded. The evening organised by the Business Professional Women’s Club in conjunction with Dr Ronell van Aswegen, was well attended - the theatre was packed out.

Christine was the coordinator of the Rape Crisis Centre at the George Hospital for 8 years and in that time she gave counseling, empathy and practical help to many rape victims of all ages including young children.

The other benefit function was held at Leila’s Arms.

1. Dr Ronell van Aswegen who organised the musicians and singers for the Christine Bertsch benefit concert taking a bow.
2. Ian Bosman - Arts Theatre Lighting Technician, Anne Germena - George socialite and Management Trainer, Pauline Bosman and Denise Swanepoel Front of House Arts Theatre.
3. The Business Professional Women’s Club (BPW) Committee members Rentia Venter - Chairman of Phambili Shelter for Battered Women, President Riana Appel, (far right), Sanita and Justin Branford with BPW member Andrea Watkinson.
4. Angela van Vuuren, Eanna O’Briain, Sheldon Bubanj, Mabel O’Briain and Monique Bubanj at the Christine Bertsch Benefit concert.
5. Innes Benadé en gesin saam met Outeniqua Primary School Vocal en Instrumental Ensemble