December 05, 2001

If you ever met Perry ....

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On Sunday December 2, 2001, I picked up our local newspaper to read.  It was the first time in approximately six weeks that I had the time to read anything.  My husband, Dick, had been very ill and we were on an hour schedule around the clock in dispensing his pain medication.  Needless to say, we were both exhausted.  This particular Sunday, Dick was having a better than normal day.  While reading "The Advocate" I noticed an ad asking for information regarding a bicycle with an attached trailer that was stolen from in front of a local pharmacy while the newspaper carrier was inside delivering papers.  Dick and I could not believe that someone could be so cruel, especially during the holiday season.  I decided to call "The Advocate" first thing on Monday morning to see what we could do to help.  I was informed that the newspaper carrier whose bicycle was stolen was a gentleman by the name of Perry.  He was in his early fifties and had been a dedicated carrier for many years.  His bicycle was his means of transportation in providing a living for his family.  He continued to deliver the papers without transportation, but it was so much more difficult.  "The Advocate" put us in touch with Perry.  I phoned and told him that the foundation would like to replace his bicycle and trailer with brand new ones.  Dick was having a good day, so we hopped into the car and drove to get Perry.  We headed to "Toys R Us" where store manager, David Kolometz was waiting to help us.  Mr. Kolometz generously provided the foundation with a 20% discount.  Perry picked out a brand new beautiful green mountain bike with a trailer and a bicycle lock.  He was thrilled beyond words and could not believe that anyone would do this for him.  His eyes were filled with tears of joy and his smile was as big as the moon.  During the time we spent with Perry in the car, Dick and I had a wonderful conversation with Perry.  He was so sweet, kind and humble and very appreciative of our willingness to help.  The next day during his rounds of passing papers, Perry told all of his customers the story and had them come outside to see and admire his brand new bicycle and trailer.  He was very proud and thankful and told everyone how we had touched his life.  He certainly touched Dick's and my life as well.  Our hearts were filled with joy this blessed holiday season just by the sweet reaction of this kind and gentle man.  We also provided Perry and his wife, Patricia with a Christmas ham.  When Dick passed away, Perry and his wife came to the calling hours at the funeral home to pay their respects.  Perry said to me, "Your husband was a wonderful man. God bless you and thank you again for what you did to help me."  My daughters and I cried.  God guided me to the newspaper that Sunday in order for us to be able to bless Perry's life.  If you ever met Perry, you could never forget him.  His smile alone captures your heart forever.