Most heroes don’t wear capes — some wear delivery jackets and greet you with a smile.
For Bryanston’s elderly residents, Patrick Zamachacha is one of those quiet heroes. Day after day, he arrives at their gates with medication in hand and kindness in his voice, often staying a few extra moments just to make sure they’re okay. He’s the type of person who makes a community feel safer simply by being in it. This Christmas, Hot Cares decided it was time for someone to show him the same care he shows everyone else.
Patrick has been delivering medication for Cornerstone Pharmacy in Bryanston, and his nominator, colleague Claire Gillan, describes him as the most patient and generous driver they’ve ever had. Elderly customers know him by name, look forward to his visits, and trust him completely. “He never hesitates to help, even though he doesn’t get paid extra for that,” Claire wrote in her heartfelt nomination.
But behind Patrick’s kindness has been a life slipping into hardship. Not long ago, he was robbed of his cellphone — the single tool he needs to accept and complete deliveries — and had to replace it with his own money. His delivery bike has been breaking down regularly, and every time it fails, he loses income. Repairs are costly, and renting a bike costs R3 000 a week, an impossible amount for someone who already stretches every rand just to keep working. Even so, Patrick continued to give more than he had, always arriving with a smile.
This Christmas, Hot Cares wanted to change his year — and his future. In total, Hot Cares is gifting Patrick R65 000 worth of support to ensure he never again has to choose between repairing his bike and earning a living.
Simon Hill dressed as Father Christmas on a delivery bike – for good reason!
