Megan Nunez is a daycare teacher in Vidalia, Louisiana and three years ago, she met the neighbor who lives directly across the street from the center, 91 year old Gene McGehee.
Gene has severe dementia and can barely remember his own name or his own face in pictures.
Since that day three years ago, every school day, she brings all the children across the street to play with Gene.
Everyday is a brand new experience for Gene.
It’s always the first time.
"Every day I cross the street and we meet again," Megan said.
Everyday for three years, he hears the children laughing in his front yard, and rushes to put on his coat and go outside.
He can’t remember yesterday.
Yet, he knows something wonderful will be awaiting him.
From cbsnews.…
For about an hour every afternoon, Gene enjoys time with the children. And although the night will erase every memory of the day, and a fog will smother every echo of laughter, something will remain in the recesses of his mind – something that will beckon him back whenever he hears the children playing.
Said Cathy, Gene’s daughter, “Daddy also suffered from loneliness , until those day care kids came into his life.
Oh my goodness, they have been such a blessing to daddy. And he lights up."
As Cathy said-
"Because it's love. And, you know, everybody responds to love."
Indeed.
Though sobering, i wanted to share the kindness and giving and love that Meghan is imparting to the children, to the community…..and to Mr. Gene.
It’s a lovely snowball effect of goodness.
And an example that the children will carry with them long into adulthood
"We always tell the kids that his brain is kind of sick, but his heart remembers us.”
We need more like her.
We need more like you.
If so inclined, The Alzheimer’s Association is always looking for volunteers. www.alz.org/...
Our volunteers are passionate, inspired, and making a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer's disease. Whether you can spare a few hours a week or can make a more significant time commitment, please consider becoming an Alzheimer's Association volunteer. Due to Covid-19, all program volunteer opportunities are virtual.
51
