Watching him stand alone in the window waiting for the Access van to arrive, the meaning of our last conversation suddenly makes sense.  It wasn't about the details of a very full life.  It wasn't about how he lost his leg or how long he had been HIV+.  It wasn't about the joy of years together with the love of his life or the overwhelming grief when he died. It wasn't about his dog, his life as a Marine or even living alone. It had been about taking the time to listen to this one man's story and finding a meaningful personal connection together.

Loneliness is some of the greatest pain that a human being can undergo.  It is one of the factors that makes living with HIV/AIDS that much harder.  It is normal for all of us to feel lonely sometimes.  We all have those days when it seems as if every person on the planet, but us, has a life full of friends, family and loved ones to lean on.  Compound that 'normal' feeling with HIV-related stigma and fears, and the effects of this loneliness can be overwhelming or possibly life-threatening.  

When Larry came to Rosehedge / Multifaith Works he was lost in grief over the death of his partner of 27 years.  Having spent years caring for his partner, he now found himself alone and struggling to care for himself.  Barely able to leave his home, his health was quickly deteriorating.  A neighbor suggested he get connected to RH/MFW and life began to change for the better.  

Change came slowly.  It took weeks to notice some of the walls coming down.  Having lived in such a state of depression and isolation for so long, Larry wasn't going to make it easy for anyone new to enter his life.  He felt he couldn't trust anyone with his problems.  To do so could begin a wild fire of gossip and finger pointing.  So how does a volunteer, a stranger in Larry's world, begin to get close enough to help?  As with any good relationship, it takes time.  It takes the consistent long term presence of someone who cares.  Relationships are built out of listening, trust, laughter, shared conversations, and a little bit of carrot cake every now and again.

These days, Larry is often described as the 'sunshine in a room'.  Ask him about what he has learned through his connections at RH/MFW and he will tell you he now knows "there are a lot of people out there that care.  They made a big difference."   Participating in the mission of RH/MFW, you are helping to make that difference every day.  Looking closer, you see Larry's reflection in the window as he waits - there you notice his smile - because he knows he's not alone.

You're Invited to Redefining Faith

1. Twin sized bedding
2. Kitchen supplies
3. Wii
4. Tickets to movies, concerts etc.
5. Gift Certificates
6. Fans

Other Housewares and Clothing
Pillows (new)
Twin size "bed in a bag" sets
Twin sheets and pillowcases (100% cotton, new)
Light blankets or comforters
Men's underwear (new, M/L/XL)
Men's white cotton crew-length athletic socks (new)
Coffee maker (6-12 cup size)
Fans (window, box, or oscillating)
Heavy-duty stand mixer (like Kitchen Aid)
Pump air coffee pot
Plates and bowls (microwave and dishwasher safe)
Plastic drinking glasses (commercial type)
Plastic pitchers with lids
Commercial coffee pot
Porch chairs
Cat carrier
Shower curtains (new)
Bath mats (new)

Other Entertainment and Treats
Wii
Computers
Tickets to movies, sporting events, concerts, etc.
DVD movies (new or used)
Telephone calling cards
Art supplies
Prizes for in-house game nights (bags of chips, candy, soda, small gift cards)
Gift certificates (Starbucks, Safeway, Fred Meyer, QFC, Blockbuster Video, Hollywood Video, movie theaters, Trader Joe's)

For more information, or to make a donation, please email or contact us at (206) 324-1520.

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