Leroy & Silvia Bradshaw, Blackstone, VA

On the phone to Leroy’s 93-year-old Uncle Nick, after speaking to Silvia’s 99-year-old mother, Leroy & Silvia have inspired me to do a better job of keeping in contact with my elders. Last Monday evening, after 14 walking miles brought me into Kenbridge, VA, Leroy & Silvia Bradshaw scooped me up in Kenbridge and shuttled me immediately to Blackstone, VA, for the Monday night Rotary Club weekly meeting. After several active days here in Blackstone, Leroy returned me to Kenbridge last Friday to walk the dozen connecting miles from Kenbridge to their Blackstone, VA home on Friday. Tonight is night #7 with Leroy & Silvia, and tomorrow I plan to walk a few miles north, toward Amelia County.

Over the course of the week I’ve spent with them, I’ve been very inspired by their active involvement within the community. A dentist & hygienist who have taken their own, unorthodox, prevention-heavy approach to dentistry, the Bradshaws also make ample time to volunteer within the community: Leroy was busy volunteering in the kitchen at the concession stand this past week, and picking up trash on the side of the road this weekend. Silvia not only does a fabulous job with household responsibilities, she also loves cooking her delicious dishes for the world around her.

Leroy & Silvia were born a few years before my parents, and over the course of my days here, I’ve seen them do a fantastic job of staying in touch with their elders– including many who otherwise receive very little social contact. They’ve shown me that even if for only 5-10 minutes per call, keeping regularly in touch with our elders and extended family is very worthwhile and enriching.

Thank You, Leroy & Silvia, for many positive lifestyle improvements that you both are turning me on to…