Seems that the annual Christmas letter is a way to let everyone know what your family has been doing, and this is a good opportunity for us to do just that. The Evangel Home family has been busy helping the homeless women and children who come to our door. In addition, we spent much time, effort, and energy taking care of one of our own -- Maxine Miller.
Maxine has been involved one way or another with this ministry since the beginning in 1955. She was quite the "tool woman"-- always fixing things and carrying at least one flashlight "just in case . . . ." Even at the age of 80, we found "work" for her and paid her for 6 hours a week no matter what the activity was.
Last year we began to see changes in Maxine. She would forget to come to work; become agitated at certain times of the day; and was losing weight. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, but continued to live independently until this past summer. We checked in on her a lot and brought her here for many meals and conversations. We spoke frankly with Max about selecting some people who could walk with her as her steps faltered. She chose some of the Evangel Home staff to walk the path and called us her committee.
Several members of the "committee" are graduates of Evangel Home programs--women whom Maxine looked out for when they were in the program and she was a house manager. Now they were looking out for her. Someone had to step in and help her out. Maxine has no family and so the "someone" ended up being us. She fought help and began to ride the city bus all day often ending up with us for dinner. Then a staff member would take her home.
It became obvious that the time had come to get Maxine more help. We even brought her here to keep her safe until a more appropriate place could be found. We explained to all the residents that Maxine was one of the family and would be staying with us for awhile. They were more than happy to help. The first night she was here, the housemanager on duty asked her to say the dinner blessing. Although a bit confused and not happy about being here against her will, Maxine didn't miss a beat and offered the prayer she probably prayed hundred of times when she was on staff.
Maxine is now at a very nice assisted living home. She is physically healthy, but losing her memory. She is still sweet and funny, and we have learned that you join people on this journey. You don't fight them. When she says she needs to find where she parked her car, we walk with her and then say we'll try again tomorrow. When she calls and says she has lost her bed, we assure her she is OK for the night and then ask to speak to the attendant who is right with her. Of course she is not going to lose her bed, but still that is her reality for the moment.
The "Committee" helped her move in to her new place in November and then had lunch with her. She still carries a flashlight (at least a small one in her purse) and wants someone else to pay the lunch tab; she likes her red lipstick and jeans that are too big; she calls one of us every night, prays for people when asked, and says she is "traveling light" because she will be going home tomorrow.
She won't be going home tomorrow, but we will be going to see her and have lunch again.
About Us: Telling our stories. Sharing our lives.
- Gerre Brenneman, Evangel Home Executive Director
- This blog is about the Evangel Home--a Christian ministry to homeless women and childen. It is called "Inside Out" because we want to give you a glimpse into our home--to share the joys of being part of redeemed lives as well as the hard landings that are the reality of being in the trenches. And sometimes there's just an opinion or thought we want to share.
Gerre, thank you for taking the time to write this beautiful post. Maxine is so blessed by God to have you and everyone at Evangel Home as her family, just as Maxine blessed Evangel Home all those years with her unique talents. And, I feel blessed to know both you Godly women.
ReplyDeleteGerre, it is so great to hear how well Maxine is doing. I know it has been ages since I've come around but you all have always been on my heart. I miss you all and I am so thankful for eveything that you all have done and given. I had my share of stories with Maxine and I love her. You guys are amazing!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad I found this story on this day. God gives us what we need WHEN we need it.
ReplyDeleteA close friend of mine is battling major health issues and just spent the last week at St Agnes. She is now in a convalescent home for awhile because she is dizzy. I do not know when she can return to her home, but I doubt if she will be able to drive when she is released and will need more care, although a feisty and independent lady who will fight this tooth and nail. Your post reminds me to take each moment as it comes and let Gail be Gail.
I have spent the most magical year in SF, but it has come to an end, sadly for me, but I believe God is moving me back to Fresno so I can help this dear friend and another friend who has taken on the task of caring for Gail this past week. Having prayed for a job, God may be answering in a way I never expected.