Playing Chess and Activities at the Co-Op City Giveback

I’ve been wheel chair bound for 15 years. I met Romeo 5 years ago while driving in the car with my girlfriend. We stopped to look at them play chess from the car. He asked us was we lost and I responded and said no. He said then why r u looking at the game from there? At that time he didnt know I couldn’t walk. He ask me did I play chess and I said yes.

I explained to him that I was in a wheel chair. He asked me can I use my hands? I said yes, he responded by saying what r u waiting for. The rest is history!

Being in this wheel chair can be very frustrating Mentally & physically. He gives me a chance to release my frustration and be whole Again. I feel I’m doing something productive with my life.

He even calls me when their out there playing. A life saver and a friend.

I met Mr. Romeo while picking my daughter up from elementary school . He was in front of the park teaching some youths. He got up and gave me his business card and told me about his programs. My daughter played chess with him and we attended a few of events. Eight years later my daughter is in her first year of college and he still supports us.

Time sure flys and he’s still doing what he does. He’s like family now!

Thank you!