Richard

Richard

Richard: such a special person and an appreciative, loyal friend – a wonderful young man. From the get-go, Richard and I developed a unique relationship. He loved going to the American Museum of Natural History where he knew more than I did (often) – especially in the Planetarium. When we lunched in the cafeteria, he confided in me his feelings about friends and school. He was lonely as a young boy… but now says “I am no longer that boy in the cafeteria.” He often stayed overnight at our house and freaked out when a spider appeared near his bed. He was an avid reader, tree climber and excellent eater. (Today he is best turkey cutter AND accomplished chef, only two of the reasons why I love having him for dinner.) Another memory: When I was in the recovery room and awakening from nasty cancer

surgery, Billy, Natalie AND Richard were there, and as semi-conscious as I was, I recall my feeling of pure delight at seeing my loyal Richard… Billy and Nat, I was very happy to see you too!

But back to Richard’s life: he attended Cherry Gulch School in Idaho, a school designed to assist boys with various types of challenges. Richard adjusted (he threw his parents out as soon as he entered the school front door), made significant progress, and was described to me by his mentor, Ryan, as “a wonderful boy.” Richard spent over a year at SUNY in New Paltz, took summer courses as well, then discontinued his education there but remained in the vicinity with his friends. While at college, he worked in scenic design shops where he excelled, since his engineering acumen far exceeded his actual job description.

Recently, he has been working as an arborist with a group of men who admire Richard’s knowledge in botany and aligned sciences. In his journey to “find himself” in a satisfying occupation and rewarding life, Richard has made many choices befitting his talents: rock climbing, skiing, hiking, ice climbing, assisting people in need of guidance, chef – Richard, whose IQ is off the charts, may have some unknowns in his future – but that future holds rewarding surprises and successes for a confident man named Richard Gorlin.