Charlie Diehl is a very special ten-year-old. He has a captivating smile, a keen wit, appreciates his parents and family roots, and is sensitive to the needs of others. With all these qualities going for him, Charlie has initiated a project to deliver gift bags to all 120 residents of Beikirch Care Center in Brockport.
Charlie’s father, Kevin, is a resident at Beikirch Care Center. Charlie visits his father on a regular basis with his mother, Mary Diehl. They have brought many gifts to Kevin, decorating his room with bright colors, balloons and messages.
Charlie had met other residents when he, with his mother and father, would go to Bingo where they made friends. “I saw many of those friends being upset sometimes, like the one who cried when his family left,” Charlie said. “It’s horrible to hear someone crying, especially when they are in the nursing home and away from their family.”
In the interview with Charlie were Mary Diehl and Anne Marie Houseman, director of social work at Beikirch. Charlie was asked how the project started. “I was in the elevator going home one day,” Charlie said, “and I told my mom, I want to do something for this nursing home. She said, ‘OK’ and that’s how we started the gift bags.” Sitting close to him, Mary joked, “I’m your manager.” Charlie quipped, “Yes, this is my manager over here,” hugging his mom and causing an outburst of laughter. Continuing the banter, Charlie exclaimed, “We are the only two people working for the company!” to more laughter.
Mary posted an appeal on social media, telling of Charlie’s project and asking for gift contributions. She also used Gofundme.com under “Charlie Diehl’s Give Back.” Cash donations and gift items poured in. Ann Marie has sorted items into gift bags for each resident by name. More able residents will get items to use like pencils, writing pads, and puzzles. Others receive gifts like lotions and shampoo. All fourth floor residents have received their bags (at press time). There are two floors still to go.
The gifts are delivered with copies of Charlie’s note saying, “From Charlie, because my Dad has everything he needs and one day when I left, I thought of you.”
Responding to comments about his sensitivity and maturity, Charlie said, “Thanks. I learned that from my Mom. And she learned it from her Dad and from her Mother. My Grandma is still alive, but my Grandpa passed away from a stroke, unfortunately. I wasn’t even born when that happened.”
Charlie appreciates family. He said he was born December 28, 2004, noting he shares a birthdate with his Father and his Aunt Kate. Charlie is named for his grandfather who is buried in a cemetery near Buffalo. “Charlie wanted to go with me when I visited my father at the cemetery,” Mary said. She described how Charlie sat near the gravesite, telling his grandfather how proud he was that he was in the Army during World War II. “He also told my father that he wished he had met him, but, as his namesake, he is honored every day to be his grandson.”
Charlie was asked how he feels about doing this project. “I just feel great that I have done this for the nursing home,” he said. “I just wanted to make my dad proud … .” His words trailed off into sobbing as he leaned on his mother’s arm. After a moment, Mary told him to breathe deeply, then said, “We are crying with you because you are very sweet and have a very big heart. As a ten-year-old, you have said, ‘I love my Dad and want to make him proud, and I want to give back.’ It came from your heart and mind. You’re amazing. We are proud of you.” Charlie looked up and smiled.
“Every day he is hugged and told he is loved,” Mary continued. “He knows he has a foundation of love and a strong bond with the family. So many have been inspired by him and have stepped up, donating to empower him.”
Note: Donations can still be sent through Gofundme.com: “Charlie Diehl’s Give Back.”
