Going the extra mile for stroke survivors

Plans are in motion to significantly change the lives of many people living with disability following stroke, especially those not covered by ACC, thanks to the kindness and forward thinking of a donor.

Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand, in partnership with the Independent Living Charitable Trust, is excited to announce the launch of a nationwide fund to gift at least 100 motorised mobility scooters to stroke survivors - honouring the wishes of the Morath family who left a gift in their Will.

Peter Morath lived with his wife Shirley in Cass Bay which overlooks Lyttelton Harbour near Christchurch. Shirley was a stroke survivor and, with the aid of an electric wheelchair, Shirley was able to have her independence and dignity.

In loving memory of Shirley, and in gratitude for her lifetime of encouragement, Peter’s Estate has gifted Stroke Aotearoa the ability to enhance other stroke survivors with that same independence.

The bequest is an unprecedented opportunity to improve the mobility, independence and wellbeing of stroke survivors through access to motorised scooters.

Stroke Aotearoa is very grateful for the Morath family’s thoughtfulness, foresight and generosity in enabling stroke survivors to live better lives.

Stroke Aotearoa Chief Executive Officer, Jo Lambert says,

“This national programme will transform the lives of many stroke survivors across Aotearoa. Mobility is so important after a stroke – for social inclusion, connection, independence, mental wellbeing, and rehabilitation."

"It is fitting and exciting to launch this fund on World Stroke Day, 29th October 2025.”

Stroke survivors wishing to apply to the fund for a motorised mobility scooter can do so online here.

To leave a gift in your Will, contact bequests@stroke.org.nz