JOHN Morey didn’t just get a new bicycle yesterday; the unexpected gift from a generous stranger also restored his faith in mankind.
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The Wodonga man, who has an intellectual disability, was devastated after the bike his parents had bought him for Christmas was stolen from their Gayview Drive home three days ago.
But after reading about his plight in yesterday’s Border Mail, Albury woman Susanne Walters decided to see if she could help out.
She contacted Albury’s The Full Cycle in Macauley Street, who agreed to help contribute to the cost, before calling the Moreys.
“I just wanted them to know there’s not just bad people in the world, there’s good people out there too,” she said.
“It’s a low act to steal any property from anyone ... and if you can help someone out, then why not?
“Whenever I see a need I try to help where I can.”
Needless to say, John, 33, was rapt.
The bicycle was his only means of transport and allowed him to get to and from his work programs at Aspire Support Services independently.
“I just want to thank Susanne for what she’s done for me,” he said.
“Now I will be able to go to work on my own.”
John’s parents, Barbara and Peter Morey, were also grateful for Ms Walters’ generosity.
“For someone we don’t even know to do this ... it’s overwhelming,” Mrs Morey said.
“John has been feeling there’s only bad people out there now, and we’ve been trying to explain to him that there’s not.”
Mrs Morey said they still hoped to find the stolen bike. If found, the family would give it to Ms Walters to donate to a person of her choice.
“It would be nice if someone else had the chance to enjoy it,” she said.
The stolen bike was a black Specialized mountain bike with a blue and orange trim.
Anyone with information on its whereabouts can phone Wodonga police on (02) 6049 2600.