Speaker, the ACDP was saddened to note the death of Bertha Gxowa in November. MaBertha, as she was affectionately known, almost reached her 77th birthday. This was too young, in my opinion, for such an amazing woman to die, but she had so obviously packed several lifetimes of experience into her almost 77 years.
Bertha, a staunch African Methodist, referred to herself as a woman of the church, and shared with me her passion for preaching on many issues. She carried herself with dignity and authority at Parliament, as she firmly held her ground on issues that were close to her heart, a heart that had no doubt known much hurt and pain over the years.
Bertha and I served together in the Health committee. During her time there, we had occasion to disagree radically over the issue of abortion and the right to life of a child still in the mother's womb. Her passion and pain were evident. I loved and respected her for her willingness to respond to life and she experienced it in the most honest and courageous way she knew how. I am sure Bertha must have been admired and loved by many and will be sorely missed.
The ACDP extends its heartfelt condolences to her five children and their families on the loss of their mother and grandmother. I thank you. [Applause.]