The Friendship of a Lifetime!
Several years ago, Paul, had a procedure done that required therapy at a different location. Because Paul could be a very persistent individual, he was refusing to cooperate during his sessions. Lois, Paul’s mother, called me in utter despair, looking for help. I worked 2nd Shift during the week so, it worked out perfectly for me to spend a few hours in the morning with him, assisting with his therapy. As time progressed, he unfortunately developed other serious health issues that took a toll on his body. For a few months, he was in various hospitals and skilled facilities trying to recover from a near death experience. I continued to spend most mornings visiting with Paul and Lois. His appearance was always important to his mother, so I would help with bed baths and shaving. We would play cards, watch “The Price is Right”, read together, pray together.
Miraculously, after a few weeks he regained strength and began to recover. After a few more months, he was able to resume his routine at Starbuck and his day program, Lucy Idol. He was becoming so full of life! So, when I had free time, I would come pick him up and take him to church, holiday parties, family functions, ball games, the fair… you name it, we did it! He became such a huge part of my life that when I would go somewhere without him, people would ask where he was because his personality brought so much joy to those around him.
God allowed Paul to be with us for several more wonderful years before he passed on his 49th birthday. As we prepared for his ‘homegoing’ service, my heart was crushed, yet so full of gratitude. Paul’s family had always expressed their appreciation for my interest in Paul’s well-being, but what I later had to explain to them, was that I was the one who was extremely blessed to have him and the other individuals of Echoing in my life! I continue to learn from their challenges and rejoice with them in their triumphs.
This ministry has become my passion. God has called all of us to serve. There is no other place I would rather be than here, in the center of God’s will for my life.
-Camille Adams, Echoing Hills Northeast Ohio
