Dreamcatchers
The 2017-2018 Dreamcatchers Club
September 11, 2017
On a bright Saturday morning, several Rosary students, parents, and volunteers joined forces to fulfill the final wish of a special man, Mr. Richard Flores. Richard is 85 years-old and has a terminal illness, but his story is so much more than that.
Richard has been enthusiastic about cars his entire life. He took apart a car and built his first street racer when he was only a teen! He continued building and racing cars with friends, and soon became recognized and respected for his drag racing skills.
In his community, Richard became known as the first outstanding Hispanic fabricator (car manufacturer) during the 1950’s and 60’s. Even retirement couldn’t keep him away from his passion. He and his wife Eleanor became members of the Model A car club in their neighborhood and traveled all over California, Canada, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon in the Model A station wagon he’d built from scratch. Now that he can’t enjoy driving anymore, his family and friends wanted to celebrate his legacy and bring a “car show” to him at his own home.
Richard enjoying seeing his friends’ old-fashioned cars.
Eleanor reached out to Dreamcatchers through the hospice group who cares for Richard, Pathways Hospice. Then, Dreamcatchers contacted Lindsey Shank “18 and Jillian Lao “18, founders and officers of Rosary’s Dreamcatchers club, and they happily took on the responsibility of making Richard’s dream come true.
Senior Lindsey Shank smiles as she serves desserts.
Lindsey and Jillian, with the help of other members of the Dreamcatchers club, planned every detail of Richard’s special day: catering, decorations, and seating for more than sixty of Richard’s family and friends! Amazingly, the community was able to pull together, and many of the necessary items were donated for free. Dreamcatchers club members pitched in to donate the remaining supplies themselves.
On the day of the event, dedicated members of the club arrived at the Flores’ home early to set up tables and decorations. When catering from a local Mexican family restaurant was delivered, the girls jumped into serving tacos, beans, and rice to hungry guests. Then, after they had eaten, the guests wandered out to admire the many beautiful old-fashioned cars parked in front of the Flores house. Richard was brought out in his wheelchair to meet his friends and see his beloved cars. Although he couldn’t speak to us, his bright smile told us that he was really enjoying himself.
And he wasn’t the only one: Volunteer Alex Galvan “18 remarked, “It was a fun experience! I’m glad we were able to help him feel better”.
At the end of the party, as the volunteers gathered to say goodbye, Eleanor gave the group an emotional thank you. She expressed her amazement and gratitude for the hard work the Dreamcatchers club put in: “We’re so impressed because of your age and your enthusiasm and willingness to give. I’m speechless!”
Most importantly, Eleanor explained how this event had brought some happiness to her husband’s life: “My husband really enjoyed it. He was so excited to get up and meet all of you this morning!”
Richard’s car show was a memorable day for everyone involved. Kudos to the Dreamcatchers girls for showcasing Rosary’s commitment to service!
Megan Shank • Sep 13, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Excellent article. You really captured the spirit of Dreamcatchers and the wonderful dreant that they provided!! Great job!!