“I Have A Friend” the colors of our life

By Laurie Black

her children, and she even gave me some advice for getting older.

She said, "When you are older you should do what you enjoy and not necessarily what people tell you to do."

I asked Leila what it is that she enjoys. She smiled and said, "Come with me."

She showed me her "art studio" where she paints. Her paintings are full of the colors and experiences of Puerto Rico and mirror her own vibrant personality. Leila said, "When I paint, I get into the painting and don't worry about all the things going on outside [my art studio]."

patient person. We enjoy visiting with each other."

Susanne, a native of Germany, started volunteering with the Senior Visitors Program to meet people in the community which was new to her.

Susanne said of Leila, "I learn a lot from her. She has shared how different life is in Puerto Rico and how she arrived in New York as a little girl. I love that she shares her art with me and so many stories. When the weather is nice, we will visit outside, sit in the swing, or go for walks. I am enjoying my volunteer experience very much."

I always enjoying visiting with Senior Visitors program volunteers and participants. A recent meeting with Leila (above left)and her volunteer, Susanne, was a particularly fun experience. Leila immediately began sharing with me stories of her Puerto Rican heritage, her life and experiences working in Virginia and raising

Leila also shared with me that she loves meeting new people and hearing about their life. She has especially enjoyed getting to know Susanne through the Senior Visitors program.

Of Susanne she said, "I love her. She is very good to me. She is a gentle,

I also met Nancy, one of Leila's daughters. Nancy said, "We love Susanne. I appreciate how consistent she is. She loves what she does, and it shows. She has a gentle heart and is one of a kind. Mom feels more hopeful and happy when Susanne visits. Her visits give Mom something to look forward to each week."

I felt honored to share in Susanne and Leila's weekly visit. Their bright smiles, cheerful voices, and colorful stories, made me feel like I'd stepped into one of Leila's paintings.

If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit or if you would like to volunteer to visit a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-22704 or visit our website at mhafred org Refer a senior or sign up to be a volunteer! The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg

CPR Awareness Week is June 1st7th and is highlighted throughout the month of June. We would like to shine a spotlight on the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the incredible impact it can have on saving lives. This year, the week-long campaign takes on an even greater significance as local businessman, Joel Griffin, co-founder and Chairman of Gwyneth's Gift Foundation, was honored for his heroic actions that led to the successful resuscitation of a man who experienced sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) Griffin was recently presented with the Meritorious Civilian Award by the Loudoun Chamber, recognizing his outstanding courage and dedication to saving lives.

The valor award was given to Griffin during the Loudoun Chamber's 38th Annual Valor Awards ceremony held on May 1, 2023. This prestigious honor commends individuals who have demonstrated exceptional public service or performed heroic acts within their community. Griffin's selfless response and knowledge of life-saving techniques played a vital role in the revival of an elderly man who suffered from SCA.

The incident unfolded when Griffin witnessed the man's collapse due to sudden cardiac arrest. Thanks to his knowledge of CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) use, Griffin swiftly sprang into action. Without hesitation, he initiated chest compressions and, on the