Imagine you live in a different state than your parents do, and every time you talk to them you are finding that they have needs that you cannot help address because you are so far away. Picking up and moving closer to them is not an option for several different reasons. What do you do?

This is the situation that Kyle and his brother John found themselves in last year. Kyle and John are trying to care for their parents, Ned and Eileen. They are growing older and have medical issues, but want to stay independent. Ned and Eileen have been married for 60 years and really enjoy each other’s company. They just want to remain in their home, but they need a little help.

When Kyle first reached out to Love In the Name of Christ, the family needed some medical equipment. Medical equipment is available to anyone in the community with a need, and does not require the Intake and Verification process. Through conversations with volunteer Receptionists from Weirsdale Presbyterian Church and Faith Presbyterian Church, Kyle requested a transport chair, cane, and a lift chair. Thankfully, a lift chair could be given to them because someone had generously donated one to Love INC. The cane and transport chair were provided by the Medical Ministry housed at First Baptist Church of Summerfield. All of the items delivered to Ned and Eileen by volunteers from First Baptist Church at the Villages and Fairway Christian Church.

The next month, Kyle called in and spoke with a volunteer Receptionist from First Baptist Church at the Villages requesting a walker. Again, this request was fulfilled by the Medical Ministry and no Intake was needed.

A couple months later, Ned and Eileen’s washing machine stopped working. When Kyle called to request a new washer, the Intake and Verification process became necessary. Volunteers from Grace Tabernacle Church and St. George Episcopal Church took the time to listen to their story and pray with them. It was very obvious that Kyle and John desperately wanted to care for their parents and provide them the best life they could.

Two volunteers from North Lake Presbyterian Church visited Ned and Eileen and performed a Site Visit. As part of the Site Visit, the volunteers measured the space in their home so that when a washing machine was delivered, it would fit. The Furniture and Appliance Ministry delivered the washing machine. They also hooked it up and ensured it was working properly before they left.

Love INC connects the calling of the local churches to the struggles of the community. This aspect of ministry is on full display in the lives of Kyle, John, Ned and Eileen. So many churches came together to love on this family and help these brothers take care of their elderly parents. In the process, Ned and Eileen are being treated with dignity and respect. Kyle and John are comforted with the knowledge that their parents are cared for by their community. These are things that are immeasurably important.