Larry Needs Our Help—Join Zach in Supporting His Recovery

My name is Zach Lewis. I am a New York City-based photographer, and for the past five years, I've traveled over 15,000 miles across America, photographing the overlooked, the forgotten, and the stories that define who we are. In July of 2023, I was photographing in rural Arkansas when I met Larry. He was walking home from work early in the morning, and we struck up a conversation that led to one of the most meaningful encounters I've ever had on the road. Larry has lived in this small town his whole life, in a region shaped by the cotton industry and generations of systemic hardship. He carries a quiet wisdom, resilience, and warmth that left a lasting impact on me.

A few months ago, Larry suffered a stroke, significantly affecting his ability to work and provide for himself. Life in his town is already difficult—opportunities are scarce, and recovery from something like this is made even harder by a lack of resources and support.

I was already working on a film when this happened, using footage I shot of Larry in 2024—him giving me a tour of his town from the backseat of my car, explaining what life is like in a place like this. This footage had been sitting idle, but now, I've had it cut into a short film to tell Larry's story and inspire others to help. Larry carries a quiet wisdom and resilience, the kind that feels forged over 1,000 years—like someone who has seen the world turn, endured its hardest truths, and come to understand more than most of us ever will. He lives in a place where community, in the way most of us know it, barely exists—where support is scarce, and people are left to fend for themselves. Through this platform, we have the chance to show him what true community looks like.

Larry works as a contractor, doing physical labor—work that depends entirely on his ability to use his hands and body. A few months ago, he suffered a stroke, and for someone like him, that isn't just a medical emergency—it's a direct threat to his survival. Strokes can cause a sudden loss of movement, coordination, and strength, often making even the simplest daily tasks—walking, gripping objects, or speaking clearly—difficult or impossible. Recovery can take months or even years, and for someone in Larry's position, that means lost work, lost income, and the daily struggle of trying to regain function without the safety net that many of us take for granted.

I'm setting this GoFundMe goal at $10,000, which will go directly toward Larry's medical expenses, recovery, and daily needs while he finds his footing again. Every dollar raised isn't just help—it's a lifeline, a chance to ease the weight of survival and give Larry the support he's never had.

My friend Larry is someone who deserves to be seen and supported. If you can contribute, please do—and if you can't donate, sharing this with others would mean just as much. Let's help Larry get back on his feet.

Thank you and good luck,

Zach