“I Have A Friend” peter & ashley

By Laurie Black

It is once again my pleasure to introduce you to two amazing people here in our community, Peter Getts and his friend Ashley

Peter has been volunteering with the Senior Visitors Program since 2012. He and Ashley began visiting in 2019, right before the pandemic.

I met Peter and Ashley at one of their favorite places, Bojangles in Spotsylvania. Their genuine smiles and comfortable conversation said volumes about their friendship.

Peter says of Ashley, "Ashley is a hard worker. He was a chef for 35 years. For decades he worked two jobs to support his family. He grew up on a farm near Keysville. Really, he is a social butterfly and he is always positive, upbeat, and full of energy."

Ashley says of Peter, "He is a fine person. I couldn't ask for a better friend. We enjoy talking about old times, but we talk about the future too." Ashley went on to say, "This program is good for the mind. I lost my wife and that was really hard. [This program and Peter's visits] give me something to look forward to."

I asked Ashley and Peter if they had a favorite outing or visit together. They both agreed that a fishing trip to Mott's Run just before the pandemic was their favorite. Ashley explained, "We didn't really catch anything, but it was nice to be out in the fresh air fishing. I have alwaysenjoyed fishing."

Peter said, "We are hoping to return to outings soon. Maybe we can go on another fishing trip. However, my favorite thing about our visits is the conversation. I love our conversations. One of our favorite topics is ‘it was better in the old days.’Really we are just two old guys sitting around telling stories." Peter and Ashley both laughed when I said I would be sure to share that quote.

Peter said of the Senior Visitors Program, "It is incredibly fulfilling. The connections you make are wonderful. I referred a friend to the program. He volunteers with Mental Health America of Fredericksburg's Senior Visitors Program now too. We were talking recently, and both agree, it is really a fun [experience]. It is just a really nice part of my life. I couldn't imagine missing out on these conversations."

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.