One day the phone rang and we couldn't have expect this to happen

One day the phone rang and we couldn't have expect this to happen.

After receiving three calls from a persistent young man speaking in Slovak, we finally had a translator call him back. The caller was employed at a Catholic Charity run disability center, stating they needed wheelchairs as the ones they have are broken down from many years of use. He said he remembered years ago LDS Charities helped people with wheelchairs in the past so he called us.

We set up a meeting with the director who was surprised by our offer to help and he said his wheelchairs have been fixed so many times that they are beyond repair. The wheelchairs were used to transport dozens of people around inside the facility such to the dining room, bathroom, TV room, or activity rooms. When asked if they needed anything else. He was hesitant to say, but explained they desperately needed hospital beds that can be lifted and lowered in various positions to help with bedridden clients. The director stated it was hard to believe we would be willing to help him and we wanted nothing in return.

Listening to him talk about the clients, we asked why he dedicates his life to helping others? He shared that he and his wife have a disabled daughter, from birth, who miraculously improved and is currently enrolled in college.

The building is an old monastery built in the 17th century, where priests resided years ago.

During our tour, he repeated several times "we are not rich, we don't have much" and apologized for the mix matched and worn out furnishing found all around his facility. Although, the facility is well organized, the bathrooms and kitchens could use many upgrades. The staff and clients make due with what they have. It shows that he takes great care, compassion, and selfless sacrifices for his clients. He considers them first before his own desires.

We scheduled a returned trip to Dom Charitas Charity House for final photos of the donated wheelchairs and beds. To our surprise, we were guests of honor for an impromptu closing ceremony.

The local kindergarten children sang, danced, and recited poems. One teacher played an accordion. After they preformed they presented the audience and us a wrapped hand made gift. 

The director announced our presence and spoke highly of the donations from LDS Charities. His heart was full of gratitude for our kindness and gift. He shared how he could not adequately express thanks for our generosity. Later, the recipients of the wheelchairs were announced.

Oh my, I couldn't have seen it coming when an elderly women was overcome with joy. Tears filled her eyes and ran down her face as she said "thank you" in English, over and over, while Greg and I helped her from the chair into her new wheelchair.

It is these kind of moments, when you know you are serving the Lord and answering the prayers of so many. 

This woman was thankful for the new bed that could recline and prop her up to assist her getting out of bed.

Our prophet, Thomas S. Monson, has said, "I know of no experience more sweet or feelings more precious than to heed a prompting, only to discover that the Lord has answered another's prayer through you."