Steve Willis, known affectionately as Steve Bo, called up Sister Judy in 2013 and said, "What do I need to do to become Catholic?" In her welcoming way, Sister Judy said, "Just show up," meaning join us at the next RCIA meeting. Steve Bo says with a profound sense of deep satisfaction, "And that was life everlasting!"
This native son of Paris, Tennessee and disabled Army veteran has inspired us with his faith, especially as we have watched him battle the effects of diabetes over the years. October 20 of last year, Steve had to leave his downtown apartment and enter a nursing facility to prepare for surgery on his leg. On May 17, Steve lost the infection battle and had to have his leg amputated.
Parishioners at the 7:30 a.m. Mass have certainly missed his warm smile and deep voice full of playful banter. One of the ushers, Larry Snider has been particularly supportive of Steve. Calling or visiting him frequently, Larry gives us all updates on Steve's progress each Sunday. Patrons and volunteers at McAnthony Window have also missed Steve's presence. He would ride his wheelchair down to the Farmer's Market and bring fresh fruit to our patrons. He always looked for ways to encourage those who were feeling down. See the picture of a banner that Steve had placed next at the McAnthony Window.
Steve is working to get back us in two to three months. Through rounds of OT and PT, Steve has graduated from needing a hoyer lift to get him up and about to using a sliding board. In the coming weeks, he will receive a prosthetic leg followed by getting up and pivoting on it. He's so motivated that he goes down to the gym in his nursing facility twice a day to work out on his own.
