To know Paul is to love him

Hello, I am writing to you with the permission of Paul Giegerich Jr’s family and the support of many of his friends. Where to begin talking about a person who seems larger than life? To know Paul or “Bone” as he is so fondly known, is to love him. Many of us probably remember the first time we met him—he tends to make an impression. Some of us have had the honor of growing up with him, of having Bone as our playmate and classmate. Others of us have met him as students at KA where he infused the campus with much joy and laughter, and kept the dishes clean in the Teachers Kitchen. He probably made you late for class because he stopped you to tell you a story or ask you why you hadn’t saved him some cake or pizza from a class party. We have all learned so much from seeing life through his eyes. His reach is far and wide, but there is one thing everyone walks away with after a conversation with him, and that is friendship. I think Paul makes new friends every day of his life because, again, to know Paul is to love him.

The Giegerich family has always been so generous in sharing Paul with all of us and in letting so many people be a part of his life. For many, it was their first encounter with a person with special needs and with Down Syndrome. Paul changed many lives, even the lives of people who have only met him through the stories we tell about him. As I struggled to find adequate words for him, I came across Amy O’Mullan’s thoughts so beautifully written:

“Today I saw a man with Down Syndrome walking down the street. I didn't need to see his face, I knew. I knew he was special like you. The way he walked, his hands, his profile all reminded me of you and it made me smile. Knowing you has given me a great love for all people, but especially people with disabilities. From a very young age, probably 7, I have staunchly defended people with Down Syndrome, even getting into some heated arguments with adults when I was a kid...and as an adult. I met people who didn't know you and everything that you accomplished. Accomplishments the doctors told your parents to never expect! With your family's love and support you did way more in your life then the dire prediction the doctors gave your parents when you were born. I have told so many people about you, as a post-partum nurse I have comforted new parents who, unexpectedly, had a Down Syndrome baby by sharing your life with them.”

Paul has been cared for day in and day out for over 54 years by his incredible family. Who could ask for a greater team in their corner than Mr. & Mrs. Giegerich, Paul’s brothers, and their families? They have loved him and pushed him to be the incredible man he is, and they continue to do so in this chapter too. There are many challenges caring for a child and now an adult with special needs, and currently Mr. Giegerich is also undergoing treatment for Lung cancer; yet through it all they remain at this side caring for him and loving him. The Giegerichs have dedicated their lives to caring for Paul and yet somehow also managed to care for all of us. I’m sure many of you, like me, can think of a particularly difficult moment-- and many a joyful one as well—where we felt the presence, love, and support of Paul and Mary Alice.

Paul’s health has been declining over the past few years. Over the past few weeks, however, that pace has accelerated. This has left Paul and Mr. & Mrs. Giegerich with some significant needs as they work to best care for him. Paul is on hospice; there is no definite timeline for this and his family’s priority is being with him, loving him, and keeping him out of pain. Many have asked what they can do during this time. I ask a few things, please pray for Paul and for the Giegerich’s. We know how important prayer is to him. Please leave a note or a memory or story as Amy did above. We would love to be able to read out loud to Paul and Mr. & Mrs. Giegerich messages from so many who love them, whose lives have been touched by their friendship, and who are praying for them. Lastly, if you are able to contribute financially, our collective support can make a significant difference during this time and help ease the financial burden. The proceeds from this Gofundme will go directly to Paul and Mary Alice Giegerich and Paul Jr. to support their medical needs as they continue to navigate and adapt to this next chapter.

I had the chance to see Paul the other day, and as I walked in the door and saw that beautiful face and smile I just kept thinking how blessed we are to know and love him. We have been the beneficiaries of his love and impact for so many years. Thank you, thank you, thank you for loving Paul and Mr. & Mrs. Giegerich and for your generosity.

Sincerely,

Therese Floyd