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800-564-1856 419-624-1856
Care family (the wonderful nurses at Firelands Cardiac
Rehab Center), a Church family (Second Baptist Church),
a Dialysis family (the great people at Firelands Dialysis
Center), an NCNW family (National Council of Negro
Women – Sandusky Section), the ACORN’s Ministry, and
an Ontario School family”, they said.
Ontario School is where Gloria works managing the
cafeteria. She said, “Everyone always shows me such
kindness. They always ask how Sam is doing and how I
am doing. That makes such a difference in keeping my
spirits up, when I know people care. At Ontario School,
my cafeteria co-workers greet me every day with support,
encouragement and prayers. Sometimes co-workers greet
me with flowers. Now, how can you ask for more than that?
They are wonderful people”!
One of Sam’s secrets for staying positive is his little
granddaughter, Aaliyah, age 4 and the newest addition,
Ava, 6 months old. “When I’m feeling down, Aaliyah
will come over and sit next to me in my easy chair. It
feels good to have her sitting next to me”, said Sam.
Sometimes she will say, “Take your medicine Poppy so
you can feel better”.
Sam’s not a quitter. He goes through physical therapy to
keep his strength to support his own weight. He does this
so he doesn’t need more care than Gloria can manage.
Why hasn’t Sam thrown in the towel? From Sam’s
perspective, “It’s my family. Gloria is the love of my life. I
can’t let my family down knowing the way they feel about
me”. Sam also credits his brother, Charles Lewis, for
developing in him the positive attitude. It was Charles who
taught Sam “If you think you can do something, then go
and do it”.
His advice to our readers is this…. “Think positive! If you
have a chance to do something – don’t wait! Tomorrow
may not come. Just do it! If you have a chance to help
someone – help them! I have never regretted doing for
other people”.
“In spite of all our troubles, we never forget where our help
comes from and who is our provider”.
