Daralt, a 75-year-old long-time resident of San Francisco, was dealing with anxiety, depression, and isolation when a friend told him about Shanti two years ago. He had suffered much personal, professional, and financial loss during periods of his life. Daralt wasn’t comfortable reaching out for support, yet he gained the courage to contact Shanti’s LGBTQ Aging & Abilities Network. We connected him with a Care Navigator and a Peer Support Volunteer so that he wouldn’t have to face his challenges alone.

Daralt’s Care Navigator and Peer Support Volunteer have provided him with steady emotional and practical support. In addition to helping with grocery shopping, errands, and going to doctor’s appointments, his volunteer visited Daralt weekly after a heart surgery.

Having benefitted from one-on-one support, Daralt began to engage more with the community. A natural story teller with an interest in writing, Daralt took a big step and attended a Queer Elder’s Writing Workshop hosted at Shanti’s Mission location. The group immediately accepted Daralt and he received positive feedback on his writing, which has led him to join another writer’s group and even read his work in public.

Since coming to Shanti, Daralt’s life has changed dramatically. He is more confident about trying new things, making social connections, and dealing with health issues, though he continues to rely on his Care Navigator and Peer Support Volunteer for crucial emotional support.  Most importantly, Daralt feels he is not alone anymore as he continues to navigate this phase of his life.

“Shanti brought purpose and a meaning. You know when you are isolated, you just think it’s pretty hopeless and you’re discarded. My whole life has changed since I got involved with them,” says Daralt.