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Despite the total destruction that we’d left Medgar with, he
never once became discouraged or lost hope. He said, repeatedly,
that anything was better than what he had. And he was right—
despite my own occasional doubts.
Framing was repaired or replaced. New plumbing and wiring
went in. New subflooring went down. Insulation was put in.
Ductwork was installed. Windows were replaced.
If nothing else happened—this was ten thousand times better
than what we started with. It was an empty shell with a rock-solid
roof overhead. We had a tree removed that was looming above
threatening the entire structure—the removal of which was donated.
Sheetrock went up. Doors were hung. Trim work began. Plumbing
fixtures, cabinets, lighting, new flooring and moldings, appliances
and granite countertops were all donated and installed. An alarm
system was installed and insurance was purchased. New mattresses
were donated—and for the first time in a very long time, Medgar
had a bed.
As of this writing, we’re actually still putting the finishing touches
on his home. The pandemic created some supply-side and staffing
availability challenges. But it’s been such a labor of love for all of us,
and it’s fun to still be tinkering with it. It keeps us connected to our
friend in a super meaningful way.
94 • MAY 2021