RICHARD LEMIEUX
While families around the world were celebrating Christmas 2002, Richard LeMieux perched at the edge of the Tacoma Narrows bridge. His business, home and nearly every possession had been lost during the past year. And, as often happens when one hits hard times and needs them the most, Richard found himself without his family and those he had considered friends.
Standing high above the water, Richard could think of no reason to live - no reason except the love of a tiny white dog. This one seemingly insignificant creature created the line which anchored Richard to this world and kept him from taking his life that cold Christmas night.
Willow loved and needed Richard, and through his profound depression, he knew he could not abandon her. So, Richard returned to the streets of Bremerton, where he slept in his car and ate his meals at the Salvation Army.
Richard was referred to Kitsap Mental Health Services where he received counseling and medications to help fight his depression. "They didn't have a magic wand to fix my life", says Richard, "but when I walked out of their doors, I had what I needed to make it through that day. Everyone there offered me hope, love, compassion and understanding."
With the support of KMHS, Richard slowly began to heal. He connected with the people he was meeting while living on the streets, and he started writing about his experiences. Two years ago, his writings were published as a book called "Breakfast At Sally's" and its success has spawned miracles. Across the nation, three homeless shelters have been inspired to open their doors because of the book, and countless individuals have come to better understand homelessness and those living in extreme poverty.
Richard no longer sleeps in his car, but he is still a regular at the Salvation Army where he has become a beacon of hope to others. "I no longer have the need for a big house on the water and a country club membership," says Richard. "Now, I just want to make a difference in other people's lives."
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