The Sounds of Independence

Pranis Charles doesn’t just travel through the halls of Monroe Community Hospital in his power wheelchair — he fills them with music.

Around dinner time, nearly every day, the former security officer and longtime resident can be found behind a piano. Without sheet music, he lets his fingers move freely, creating melodies that carry through the facility bringing moments of joy to residents, families and staff.

“There would be no music without a wheelchair,” he said, referring to his own wheelchair. “It’s a better life with a wheelchair. I can go places, do things. It’s a sense of pride.”

That sense of freedom reflects the mission of the annual Independence Cup Golf Tournament, to support MCH residents in their drive for independence. Proceeds from the event help provide customized power wheelchairs and assist with costly repairs and customizations so residents can live more independently and remain engaged in daily life.

Today, approximately 80% of all MCH residents rely on wheelchairs, all provided by the T. Franklin Williams, MD Foundation and maintained with the support of volunteers.

Funding comes from generous donors and sponsors including Paylocity, Mission Health, Morrison Healthcare, Westside Medical Supply, and Charles Schwab, and from as community events like the Independence Cup and the upcoming Taste of Our Community food and wine event at MCH on Sept. 25.

“We see independence every day in residents like Pranis, who show us what’s possible when residents are given the right support, the right tools, and the freedom to live fully within their community,” said Rachel Antoniou, Director of the Foundation.

Charles, who was featured in a video shown during the golf tournament, began playing piano at age 7 and later turned down opportunities to tour and perform with national acts, instead choosing a different path.

He worked in security at MCH for 25 years before losing both legs due to complications from diabetes at age 65 and has lived at MCH ever since. Charles recently celebrated his 83rd birthday and remains active by regularly lifting weights, participating in physical therapy, and, of course, playing the piano.

“People look at me and they’ll say, ‘You know you don’t look your age.’ I say, ‘Because I’m blessed,’” he said. “I’m doing good and this is my home. I worked here for 25 years, and when it came time to find a place to live, I said, ‘I’ve already got one—right here.’”

SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION

Those interested in supporting resident independence through the T. Franklin Williams Foundation can contact Rachel Antoniou at 585-760-6028 or RachelAntoniou@monroehosp.org, and visit monroehosp.org/support for more information.