He may be world famous in Nelson’s sporting scene but time is not on Dave Palmer’s side.
Five years ago doctors told the 71-year-old that he had five years to live after being diagnosed with a heart condition.
The Weekly featured a story earlier this month about Dave’s remarkable journey and his relationship with Action Indoor Sports, where he has been a well-known personality for more than 20 years.
But now the team at Action Indoor Sport are wanting to give something back to Dave, who has struggled to get around town since his mobility scooter broke down. They also want to help Dave fulfil some of his bucket list.
“Dave’s bucket list includes a trip to Auckland on the train from Wellington because he’s done every other train trip, and a holiday in Auckland where he can go to the movies and take a trip to the Sky Tower,” says Morgan Collis-Fisher.
So Morgan has started a Givealittle campaign for Dave, who was born into foster care and spent many years at Ngawhatu psychiatric hospital. He was diagnosed with learning difficulties, but that has not stopped him competing at New Zealand’s Special Olympics and playing sport for many years.
Dave’s health has declined over the years and he struggles with the effects of his spleen being removed and the diagnosis of his heart condition, leaving him with merely years to live.
“Getting around is very difficult, especially now his second-hand mobile scooter has seen its last days,” says Morgan.
Dave lives in a group home with a carer but his income is limited to day-to-day expenses, which means he cannot afford to fulfil his lifelong dreams and the fixing of his “car”.
Dave wants to continue to support the sports he loves but he needs a new mobile scooter. An application to the Lotto commission has this on hold with an outcome expected in September.
“But time may not be on his side,” says Morgan.
Anyone wanting to donate to Dave can visit: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/helpdavehavehislastwish
