22/04/2026
UPDATE: MARGARET GIBSON 💔
On Monday, our community once again raised concerns about Margaret’s deteriorating condition. I went to see her opposite The Birkenhead, where she allowed me to clean and treat her wounds. In that moment, there was a glimpse of hope — Margaret agreed to see a private doctor the following day.
On Tuesday morning, I arrived to take her to Dr Navaas van der Schyff at Healthfort Milnerton. Sadly, Margaret was not in a good space. She was distressed, aggressive, and not herself — throwing items, swearing, and refusing to go. Not wanting to cause her further distress, I made the difficult decision to step back.
I then contacted the City of Cape Town Social Development Department, who responded and undertook to send a team to assist with admitting Margaret under a Form 4 for observation.
This morning, a joint effort by COCT Social Development, Law Enforcement, the Displaced Persons Unit, and myself turned into nearly two hours of trying — calmly and compassionately — to get Margaret the help she so desperately needs.
But heartbreakingly, we were unsuccessful.
Margaret boarded a MyCiTi T03 and evaded admission. In that moment, we lost her.
However, based on her patterns and behaviour, I do believe Margaret will return to Melkbosstrand. It is very likely that she fled out of distress and fear in that moment. We will be actively monitoring for her return and will be ready to act once she is located again and we have our resources ready again.
This is devastating. No one deserves to live like this. No elderly person should be left to suffer on our streets, battling both physical pain and what is clearly a deeper struggle.
But please know this — we are not giving up on Margaret.
We are escalating this matter and will now be working closely with all possible role players, including the Provincial Department of Social Development and Minister Provincial Minister Jaco Londt and the City of Cape Town Social Development Division, to ensure that Margaret receives the care, protection, and dignity she deserves.
This is no longer just a concern — it is an urgent call for intervention.
If anyone sees Margaret please don't panic, we wil try again and again if needed!
Let’s stand together as a community. Our elderly matter. Their lives matter. And Margaret matters. ❤️
Image made with AI because dignity still matters ❤️