Sometimes small changes bring big results. Our Repairs on Wheels staff sees it happen every day. This Volunteers of America program, which completes home remodeling for the elderly and persons with disabilities, helps people live with greater dignity and safety. Our licensed contractor and his staff have been transforming lives in this way for the past six years.
Every now and then, a person they help really touches the hearts of the crew. Mr. Guillot was one of those. At age 58 and paralyzed by an accident more than 30 years ago, Mr. Guillot lives in a small basement apartment in his mother’s home in Jefferson Parish. He only has the use of his arms. He applied for help to make his bathroom handicapped accessible. Mr. Guillot was modest when the Repairs on Wheels staff arrived. “I’ll understand if there is nothing you can do,” he said. But they assured him that the project, while challenging, would simply require a few weeks of research and planning.
The team researched options, purchased a specially designed shower bench seat and carried out the design remodel. One day during the remodeling, Mr. Guillot was seen basking in the sunlight in the driveway, smiling and happy. His mother said, “He hasn’t smiled in over 20 years.” When the Repairs on Wheels staff finished the job, Mr. Guillot and his mother were amazed at the improvements the bathroom remodel made in his life. He said, “Look! I can get in and out of the shower easily! I can’t believe I’ll be able to take a shower.”
His mother expressed thanks. “We are so grateful to Volunteers of America for their help. I am going to give testimony to my church on behalf of Volunteers of America.” Volunteers of America recognizes that even small adjustments to a home can benefit elderly and disabled homeowners every single day. These changes are the key to allowing them to live independently in their own homes.