Day out for Fr Dave

Thanks to the generosity of Challenge 2000 in Johnsonville, Fr David Orange was able to enjoy a day out last month from his new place of residence at Aroha Rest Home in Taita. After suffering a stroke in December, and losing the use of his left side, it was the first time in five months that Dave was able to enjoy the fresh air of Lower Hutt.

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Fr Eddie Condra (l) and Challenge 2000 worker Felice (r) with Fr Dave. Photo: Supplied

WelCom June/July 2024

Fr Alan Roberts

Thanks to the generosity of Challenge 2000 in Johnsonville, Fr David Orange was able to enjoy a day out last month from his new place of residence at Aroha Rest Home in Taita. After suffering a stroke in December, and losing the use of his left side, it was the first time in five months that Dave was able to enjoy the fresh air of Lower Hutt. Long-time friend Fr Eddie Condra and Challenge 2000 worker Felice, took Dave for a drive to the Petone waterfront, then to Eastbourne for lunch. As captured in this photo Dave is making progress and is now able to stand up and make a few small steps on his own. 

Come July this year he will celebrate his 60th anniversary of Ordination to Priesthood. In the past 50 years, with the exception of a few years as parish priest of Johnsonville, Dave has served in the parishes of Lower Hutt, Wainuiomata, Avalon and hospital chaplaincy. This latter position has kept him busy presiding at weddings and funerals right up to the time of his stroke. Fr Dave still has his sense of humour and will welcome visitors at the Aroha Rest Home in Taita.