“I have participated in Sweet Readers for almost a year and a half and during this time have worked with several older adults – but I have spent the most time as a Sweet Reader with Marvin and Sandy. My first Sweet Readers sessions took place at the Jewish Museum where I was assigned to Marvin. Initially, I felt nervous and wondered how I would find “the person behind the disease”, which is what we are encouraged to do. When I met Marvin, I found him to be reserved – even a little shy. But bit by bit he opened up, and soon enough Marvin was analyzing art and even making jokes. Seeing Marvin laugh at his own jokes made me feel happy. Over time, I stopped feeling sorry for Marvin and began to see the person behind this terrible disease. He was funny. He was bubbly. He was kind-hearted. Thanks to Sweet Readers, I was able to get to know such a special man.
This year, most recently, I have been working with Sandy. Sandy is funny, caring and kind. Her favorite color is blue and she loves Passover (even though she is the only person in her family who is not Jewish!). Sandy teaches me many things each week. From her I learned the importance of humility; I learned what it means to have positive energy and I learned what it means to truly appreciate life. I so value the many lessons I have learned from Sandy but what gives me even more satisfaction is knowing that I have had a positive impact on her life as well. Sandy leaves our time together each week with a smile on her face! For this, I feel grateful!
Sweet Readers is an incredible organization that connects generations and helps the fight against Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects so many. Sweet Readers has taught me the importance of accepting everyone, embracing new situations, and it has taught me that life truly is what you make of it. Please visit the LEARN section of this site for more information about Alzheimer’s and what you can do to help, visit the ABOUT section to learn more about Sweet Readers and/or donate any amount below. Thank you!” – Julia E.
For mail-in donations, please send checks, made payable to Sweet Readers, Inc. to:
Sweet Readers, Inc., P.O. Box 287005, New York, NY 10128 USA.
