Carol’s mobility mission
533. Carol Gilson
A retired woman from Devon has helped over 250 people reclaim their independence by providing mobility equipment such as electric scooters, wheelchairs and walking sticks.
Carol Gilson, 72, launched the Joe Gilson Mobility Scheme in 2009 in memory of her husband who passed away from cancer the previous year. The scheme has transformed hundreds of people’s lives, giving them back their mobility and freedom again.
The Joe Gilson Mobility Scheme helps all types of people, from the young to the elderly and including many with terminal and chronic illnesses. After Joe’s death, Carol was determined to ensure his mobility scooter could provide the freedom Joe had so much enjoyed to someone else in need. She found a young mother to be its new owner and then set about providing scooters for 38 other people, transforming their lives with her actions.
Carol has since grown the scheme, fundraising and sourcing electric scooters, electrical wheelchairs and walking sticks.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“After seeing the difference her late husband Joe’s mobility scooter could make to someone else, Carol has worked tirelessly to help others to experience the freedom that a mobility aid can provide. I think it’s absolutely brilliant that Carol has now helped more than 250 people transform their lives and increase their independence – and I’m delighted to recognise her service to others by making her the UK’s 533rd point of Light.”
Carol’s MP Neil Parish said:
“A massive congratulations to Carol for receiving this award. Her hard work and selflessness have helped to change dozens of people’s lives for the better. It’s inspiring that Carol immediately thought of others after the death of her husband and has gone on to help so many more in similar situations. Giving people back their mobility is vital to allowing them to live more fulfilling and independent lives. I thank Carol for all her hard work – she should be so proud of her award.”