Dear Friends,
I’d like to introduce you to Br. Dennis. He’s one of those happy chaps who lights up a room. Even though his illustrious 6-decade teaching career often took him into impoverished communities,
Today Br. Dennis lives in our largest Marist Brothers’ retirement home, where he shares his legendary good cheer with fellow elderly and disabled Brothers.
I must admit that his positive attitude impresses me, since Br. Dennis suffers from severe scoliosis – along with the disease’s symptomatic chronic neck and back pain. Still though, he would rather share a good joke and a welcoming smile than complain.
After decades of tending to everyone else’s needs,
Br. Dennis needs our help.
You see, Br. Dennis is scheduled for surgery – as soon as the doctors can stabilize his blood pressure. In the meantime, I’m working very hard to raise $2,989.95 for a therapeutic hospital bed. I’m hoping to raise the funds quickly, so we have the bed purchased and installed in time for Br. Dennis’ return home from the hospital.
The surgeon urged me to get this hospital bed ready. Like many people diagnosed with scoliosis, Br. Dennis already suffers back pain, and there will be additional pain after surgery. The doctor explained that a special therapeutic mattress will help ease post-op soreness. Because the bed’s frame is adjustable at the head and legs, we’ll also be able to gently regulate Br. Dennis’ position – so he’ll be much more comfortable and far less likely to suffer circulation and respiratory issues common among post-op patients.
I pray you’ll help me raise $2,989.95 to purchase this therapeutic bed! It would break my heart if Br. Dennis suffers extra pain because our budget can’t afford the proper bed.
Of course, Br. Dennis won’t be in this hospital bed forever. By Thanksgiving he should be back in his own bed! Then the hospital bed will be empty – but probably not for long.
Caring for my elderly and disabled Brothers means that we face many different surgical needs and medical procedures. It will be such a relief knowing that a therapeutic hospital bed is there for another Brother’s post-surgery recovery. And to recover in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by those who love you, is always such a blessing.
Although…it’s a blessing we’ll only know if you help me raise $2,989.95. Please, send your support today.
I hope you understand that anything you can afford will be greatly appreciated – even if you can only spare $25. Think of the two nickels tucked in with my letter. Alone, the coins equal 10¢ but when doubled once, twice, and then again, the amount keeps adding up. In the same way, if every Marist Brothers’ friend sends what they can, the total will grow until we have the full $2,989.95.
As soon as your gift arrives, my Brothers and I will want to show our appreciation. So please, write your prayer intentions on the enclosed response slip and send the slip along with your gift. Whatever you may be going through, we want to pray for you today, and I will make sure your intentions are remembered in our prayers.
I hope you enjoyed “meeting” Br. Dennis – and you understand how very much we need your support. I also hope you and your loved ones are enjoying the remaining days of summer. You deserve only the best!
God bless you for caring so deeply,
Br. Hugh P. Turley, F.M.S.
Director of Development
