Untiring morale-booster is Elderly of the Year

The founder of the Transplants Support Group Malta, Alfred Debattista, 66, was yesterday presented with the Elderly Person of the Year award for his untiring dedication.

The award ceremony was held at the New Dolmen Hotel in Qawra.

Mr Debattista was recognised for his unstinting devotion to organ transplant patients and keeping up their morale.

Mr Debattista, who is also group president, underwent a heart transplant four years ago. He constantly lobbies to attract more people to become organ donors. His awareness campaigns on radio and television programmes have led thousands to register as donors.

He was also recognised for his constant participation within the Association of Police Pensioners by organising activities and lifting the morale of others.

Speaking at the ceremony, Parliamentary Secretary Francis Agius said it was very apt that Mr Debattista was being presented this award on the feast of St Vincent de Paul, who worked hard among the elderly.

Dr Agius said the award was the highest recognition to the elderly, acknowledging the contribution of the elderly to society.

He said the secretariat will be working to reduce the dependence of the elderly on others and encourage more active ageing.

"I would like to see more initiatives which bring the elderly and young people closer together and to foster the values of our grandparents which in today's fast-moving world often end up by the wayside," Dr Agius said.