Dear Friends,
I write today because I must raise $4,800 to cover an unplanned, yet crucial, purchase. As the story unfolds, I hope you agree that the conclusion is not only the most frugal choice but also a solution that brings so much happiness to so many. If you do agree, I hope you’ll show your support with a gift.
The story began several months ago – when we faced a life-altering decision. Should we move Br. Abe to a nursing facility or keep him home with his 21 fellow Brothers in our largest Marist Brothers’ retirement home?
Br. Abe had suffered a severe stroke, which permanently paralyzed his left leg and arm. Aside from that, his recuperation exceeded everyone’s hopes. I didn’t think twice about moving my Brother back home – until the doctor delivered a dose of reality. With Br. Abe’s left leg paralyzed, he would need a wheelchair. But, with his left arm also paralyzed, he would not be able to maneuver a wheelchair. To get around, Br. Abe would need the help of an additional caregiver – a financial obligation far beyond our reach.
I thank God that Maria, our amazing registered nurse who cares for our elderly and disabled Brothers, came up with a brilliant solution!
If we purchased a customized, motorized scooter, Br. Abe could use his right hand to work the controls. He would have a great deal of independence to move about – from attending daily Mass to “scooting” outdoors for a breath of fresh air. What’s more, Maria reminded me, a scooter was far less expensive than a nursing home.
So I purchased the scooter. I knew the funds weren’t in our budget, but how could I argue with perfect logic? And with that, I’m back to the $4,800 I must raise. I negotiated an extension on the scooter’s payment date, but that date is coming up fast.
I pray that you will help me collect the funds in time.
There is yet another reason why Br. Abe’s return home is such a blessing. This year marks his ??60th Jubilee as a Marist Brother. I celebrated my own 60th Jubilee last year, so I know first-hand that this is a time to be shared – with friends, family and fellow Brothers. It’s a time to gather together and recall treasured memories. Oh, the beautiful stories that are told and retold when a Brother celebrates his 60th Jubilee.
Br. Abe is too humble to say as much, but he deserves to honor this special occasion in his home, surrounded by the community he’s walked beside and worked with for 60 years.
I believe in my heart that purchasing the customized scooter for Br. Abe was the right decision. If you agree that Br. Abe belongs at home – safely and securely living within the Marist Brothers’ community – please show your support with a donation.
I realize that many of us are on a budget, so I assure you…whatever amount you can afford will be greatly appreciated. In fact, if every Marist Brothers’ friend adds a little to the pot, I know we can raise the needed $4,800! To drive my point home, I ask you to consider the two nickels included with my note. They’re not worth much all by themselves but if all our friends add their “nickels” to the pot, I’ll soon reach my $4,800 goal.
I have faith that you’re here for the Brothers – just as every Marist Brother is here for you! That’s why we hope you’ll send us your prayer intentions. Write them on the enclosed response slip and send the slip along with your gift. We’ll remember your intentions in our prayers as we thank God for your friendship.
In the meantime, dear friend, I hope you enjoyed a wonderful summer, and you’re now looking forward to autumn’s spectacular annual show of color.
God bless you for caring so deeply,
Br. Hugh P. Turley, F.M.S.
Director of Development
