Season for Caring: The Journey of Janie Farias and Sylvia Reyna

A Love Story Born from Dance

In 1976, in San Antonio, Texas, a chance encounter changed the lives of Janie Farias and Sylvia Reyna forever. Meeting at a local hangout called Sagittarius, it was Reyna’s dancing that first captivated Farias. “I liked the way she danced,” recalls Reyna, now 69, with a shy smile. “I didn’t know how to dance. I was very square. She got me dizzy. Everyone wanted to dance with her.” Their connection blossomed into a partnership that has endured the test of time.

Building a Family Together

Both Reyna and Farias grew up in San Antonio’s predominantly Hispanic, blue-collar neighborhoods. Reyna became a mother at 18, and after meeting Farias, their family grew stronger. Together, they raised Reyna’s son, Gilbert, who has since retired from military service and now has three daughters of his own. “When I met Janie, we became a family,” Reyna shares, illustrating their deep bond.

Hard Work and Resilience

For 49 years, the couple worked tirelessly at physically demanding jobs. Janie spent over two decades in a factory making bowling balls and later worked in food service for nursing homes. Sylvia found fulfillment in her job as a trainer and supervisor for a cleaning service. “We lived, worked, and took care of our son,” Reyna reminisces.

Facing Health Challenges

However, life took a challenging turn for the couple. Reyna faced multiple health issues, including fibromyalgia, diabetes, and a brain tumor. Additionally, she struggled with depression and anxiety. Farias, at age 71, endured complications from knee-replacement surgery, leading to the loss of her right leg and similar mental health struggles. Together, they now face a daunting reality, unable to work due to severe health limitations.

Transition to Independent Living

The couple moved into an independent living community in San Marcos. They rely on assistance from Community Action Inc. of Central Texas, which provides essential support, including physical therapy and help with daily living tasks. Despite the gravity of their situation, they still cherish moments spent together, although they can no longer dance as they once did.

Daily Life and Financial Hardships

Reyna and Farias navigate their daily routines filled with trips to physical therapy, grocery shopping, and visits to the senior center. They rely on Social Security and SNAP benefits while stretching their resources through food banks. “We go and come back, go and come back,” Reyna explains about their frequent outings. The couple has recently been nominated for the Season for Caring campaign, which aims to provide financial assistance and resources to people in need.

The Need for Accessibility

A significant challenge for the couple is their lack of a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. The current one they use requires adaptations for Farias’ wheelchair, which complicates their outings. “Of foremost necessity, is a vehicle designed to ADA standards,” they agree. They also seek other essential items, such as mattresses that accommodate their individual health challenges and adapted furniture.

Wishes Beyond Material Needs

Beyond tangible items, Farias expresses a deep desire: “With a prosthetic, I just want to walk again.” Both women continue to learn and adapt, striving to find solutions that make their lives easier. Their hopes extend to medical co-pays, daily groceries, and specifically tailored supplies that support their health and comfort.

Community Support and Advocacy

Community Action Inc. of Central Texas has been pivotal in connecting Reyna and Farias with resources. This nonprofit organization works to improve economic self-reliance among Central Texans. They have sponsored the couple in the Season for Caring campaign, establishing a vital link between community support and individual needs.

The Ongoing Journey

As Reyna and Farias focus on their health and navigate the accessibility challenges in their lives, the community is stepping up. Donations and assistance through the Season for Caring campaign are crucial for their well-being. This story, filled with love, resilience, and the complexities of modern life, serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and community in overcoming adversity.

How to Help

Those who wish to support Reyna and Farias can contribute through the Season for Caring campaign, which provides a platform for individuals to donate resources that will make a significant difference in their lives. Together, the community can embrace the spirit of caring, ensuring that love and support continue to shine even in the darkest of times.

Want to help? Here’s how to donate to Season for Caring.