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Everyone has a story to tell about Helene, so here is mine. A large red oak came down across part of my driveway, taking down some wires. We were out of power and communications for eight days. Except for one two-hour session (due to overload) in Spartanburg, I didn’t have dialysis treatment for those eight days.  

My son Leonard Jr. came up and drove me back to Miami, and I spent my 83rd birthday in a car. Leonard is a pharmacist, and the clinics know me, so on the morning of October 9, I received a full treatment. I was so weak I couldn’t stand, and I fell twice.  

It was a long, slow recovery; all I did was take my meds, eat a little, and sleep for the first three days. I’d say I’m about halfway back to full recovery; this may be all that I’ll get. It’s in the Lord’s hands and the doctors and caretakers who have been there for me. 

I’d like to give a shout-out to Robert Jones, M.A., director of Head Memorial Wellness Clinic. Robert has been supporting me and giving me nutrients for years, and I truly believe he is the reason this old, infirm body survived the trauma.

My dear wife Elaine had to put Carrie, our 20-year-old cat, to sleep. She’d lost all quality of life. I cannot answer all the messages I received; please know I read them and am highly appreciative.

One young lady asked if I could help Burly, her 7-year-old Dachshund, who was diagnosed with a torn ACL. A tree had fallen on her husband’s car, and they could only raise $1,000. I explained that I had enough in my funds for one major case, so raise what you can, and I’ll handle the rest.  

The procedure was set up at Landrum Vet with an old friend, Dr. Keith Allen, and the fee would be around $5,000. I’ve been here before, so I asked the Lord in my daily prayers to help all those who were devastated by the hurricane and, if it be His will, help me to help His animals.  

Two days later, I received a call from Burly’s mom telling me that x-rays had shown that Burly’s back was causing the trouble. They paid for the new examination, and Dr. Raines at Landrum vet will be doing acupuncture and pain medications. The lady in question told me that they could handle the treatments but may need help now and then. I looked up to the heavens and whispered, “Thank You,” and agreed to be there for Burly if needed.

So, dear readers, it looks like I will be around a little longer with your help and God’s will. Thank you for your prayers. I’m living proof that He listens.

Thank you for listening.

Leonard Rizzo is the founder of Lennie’s Kids, a non-profit organization that helps sick and injured animals in the foothills, promotes animal welfare and works to find homes for pets.