Rochester Friends Ease Burden of a Family Struck by Tragedy

ROCHESTER, MI — In 2014, John Gavel suffered a massive stroke that left him unable to walk, talk or provide for his family. Alison, his wife, was twice told to prepare herself. “He’s not going to make it,” caregivers warned.

She continued to pray and believe, and eventually brought her husband home to begin the long, slow and painful journey of recovery. One pressing problem loomed: How would the family pay for transportation costs to physical therapy and doctor’s visits?

Nancy Benedettini, co-founder of the Rochester-based 100 Faithful Friends charity, was moved by Gavel family’s plight and their resilience.

“The strength and faith of the Gavel Family is so inspiring to us,” she said.

The 100 Faithful Friends group donated $8,000 toward the purchase of a wheelchair accessible van that gives the Gavel family the independence to go to these appointments and the freedom to just go for a drive.

“We were like kids in a candy shop,” Alison said. “We used to love to go on relaxing drives together before.

“With this new van, John can stay in his wheelchair in the front passenger side,” she said. “I can hold his hand.”

While the van is changing the Gavels’ lives, she plans to donate it back to the organization when they no longer need it.

“This van is not really for us,” Alison said. “There is someone behind us that needs it and will get it.”

The van was one of three “pitches” heard by 100 Faithful Friends members during their summer meeting. Tricia Tandy advocated for the Gavel family. After a quick vote, each member, who previously agreed to the majority-rules philosophy, wrote a $100 check directly to Faith Works on behalf of the Gavel family.

Faith Works is a Christian service ministry that helps widows, military wives, handicapped, single moms, and senior citizens. Their mission is rooted in action. Volunteers help with tasks that can seem unsurmountable to those in need, tasks like painting, roof repair/replacement, plumbing, heating & cooling systems and yard work.

The other winning charities thus far are Dutton Farms in Rochester Hills, Life Builders in Detroit and the Pontiac Dream Center.

Benedettini said 100 Faithful Friends is a great vehicle for people who want to make a positive difference in the community, but aren’t sure how to do it. The group is seeking additional members to increase the impact of collective donations, she said.

“We are looking for individuals, couples, or families to join us on this charitable mission,” she said.

The group has has so far raised $30,000 and will hold its fifth annual quarterly meeting from 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 14, at the Rochester Hills Public Library’s multi-purpose room 500 Olde Towne Road.

Image: From left, Lana Doneth co-founder of 100 Faithful Friends; Tricia Tandy; John Gavel; Bob Quigley of Faith Works; Alison Gavel; and Nancy Benedettini co-founder of 100 Faithful Friends.