My husband has always had a huge affection for older people and has helped out several elderly friends in the past, but this story is different!
Mr Daves fished the same lake as my husband John for over 15 years. A friendship developed but when Mrs Daves died, five years ago, it left Mr Daves alone. They had no children and after sixty years of marriage he was lost. So John took Mr Daves fishing with him every time he went - which was often. Mr. Daves was very energetic for 80 years old and never tired of being with John.
A few years later Mr Daves had a stroke that paralyzed his right side. He lost his speech and was put into a nursing home. Confined to his bed and unable to communicate Mr Daves began to suffer from depression. This almost broke John's heart.
He finally got permission from the nursing home to take Mr Daves out for a ride. They were both excited to be together again but it was very painful for Mr Daves to be lifted into John's truck. Because he was paralyzed on one side the weight of that side pulled heavily on his good side. John worried about this but still took him out about every ten days.
John had gotten his truck a year earlier and it was the truck of his dreams, a real cowboy Cadillac. He came home one day and announced he was selling it so we could buy a van that was equipped for a wheelchair. We researched these vehicles and found one which he bought. He did sell his truck and uses this van for his transportation. It isn't sporty or fast but it sure eases Mr Daves pain on their outings and they both enjoy them so much more.
John has rigged up a special fishing rod that Mr Daves can use, so they still go fishing together. Even though Mr. Daves can't talk, he has led the nursing home staff to believe John is his son.
Mr Daves is getting old now at 86 but is still enjoying life thanks to John. I don't know anyone who would give up their prized possession to help a friend. I hope he can be an example for others to take similar steps to help those who are in need.
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- Posted by joesmith
- Nov 20, 2012
- Comments (32)
Readers Comments
princessliz wrote: He sounds like an amazing person. What a selfless thing to do. I do believe they're family. Love goes above and beyond blood bonds.
Thanks for sharing this, so inspiring.
Thanks for sharing this, so inspiring.
starryskies wrote: WOW! Such a beautiful, beautiful story of friendship. Thanks for the uplifting post!! :)
MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: What amazing kindness your husband shows! The world is truly a better place (just ask Mr. Daves!) because of him! :)
mssmileyface wrote: You have such an amazing and caring husband. Thank you for sharing your story. :)
moral12 wrote: This is ABSOLUTELY amazing, as the others have already commented on: your husband is truly an angel here on earth. What a treasure, to take the time to care for that elderly neighbor and be his surrogate "son". Thank you so much for sharing his story. And, bless you for being there and supportive of your husband's acts of kindness.
msn53 wrote: Although your husband is an incredible man for being so full of kindness and generosity, I cannot help but say that you also had a part in his being so kind to Mr. Daves. The times you gave for him to take a friend out for a ride or fishing, and the agreement made by both of you that a van was the way to go, speaks of a selfless woman.
What a blessing you both are. It isn't everyday we see two people lovingly act together to bring joy to another!
Just when we think of angels amongst us, we will think of you both! :}
What a blessing you both are. It isn't everyday we see two people lovingly act together to bring joy to another!
Just when we think of angels amongst us, we will think of you both! :}
BlueSky wrote: Your husband knows what is truly valuable in life. "his love"
cyana wrote: Amazing loving story
sanserif wrote: Your husband is truly a living hero. Deserves a big salute.
Mish wrote: Beautiful
