Inside Stories

Elder Story: Maria

Little Brothers’ Program Coordinator Liliana Avila began her visits and friendship with our elder Maria nearly two years ago. Liliana shares how their connection made such major changes in Maria’s outlook and her quality of life. It’s this kind of friendship, which makes deep and long-lasting differences, that’s at the very heart of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly.…

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Gerald’s Great Wish

LBFE Assistant Program Director Rhonda Nanevie accompanied elders, volunteers and staff on the Summer in the City outing to Busse Woods (see pages 6-7 for more about summer programs). Rhonda had the pleasure of meeting one of our elders, Gerald, and shares his story—and her thoughts: Gerald will be 90 years old in September. He is a very charming gentleman with a positive attitude about life.…

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Eva: Calls That Count

“I’m not a phone person,” says Eva , “but I know if you’re alone, it means a lot to hear that someone cares.” Eva has been involved in LBFE’s Sunshine Voice Program since it began in Fall 2009. She calls two elders, Alice and Harold. “Alice is legally blind and still crochets. She’s amazing, and we have great conversations about gardening and so…

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An Extraordinary Life: Billee, Lady Daredevil

The following excerpt is about Billee B. from LBFE’s book Keep Them Alive.  Billee begins by talking about her parents, a mixed race couple who married in 1915. Born in 1918, Billie reflects on growing up, getting married and, surprisingly, her adventures sailing on Lake Michigan at age 90—and blind. “I went through a lot when I was growing up. A great deal, but I stood up under…

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