LWer Pam Bartleson brings spirit of aloha to festival

MEMBER COLUMN

by Lori 'Lolo' Chamberlain

LW contributor

You often hear Pam Bartleson’s laugh before you see her. Then comes that big, unmistakable smile.

Pam and I became friends in the 1990s through Long Beach Christian Fellowship.

She dreamed of working in Leisure World, where her parents and grandparents had lived. Ten years ago, that dream came true when she became a LW bus driver and, later, moved into Leisure World. She now lives in Mutual 6.

Many will remember Pam, in her bright green shirt and polka dot gloves, carefully securing wheelchairs and making sure every passenger was safe.

Then, in March, Pam was diagnosed with an aggressive disease that has rapidly taken away much of her ability to move and speak but not her alert mind, her joy or that wonderful smile.

Pam now depends on family members and caregivers around the clock for every physical need.

The constant care is emotionally, physically and financially demanding.

Pam’s world may have become smaller, but her desire to remain connected has not.

That is why the GAF Multicultural Event on July 18 was so special.

I asked my hula instructor, Jojo Weingart, whether Pam could join our multicultural flag presentation as one of the “flag wavers” on stage.

Jojo’s opening number was designed not only to bring together residents representing different cultures but also to recognize those who rely on the loving support of family members and caregivers.

Pam was a meaningful addition, and she was delighted to take part. During “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” her sons, Bryan and Justin, brought her onto the Amphitheater stage in her wheelchair.

At center stage, they helped raise her arms, so she could wave to the audience.

The crowd cheered and waved glowing foam batons in return. In that moment, I felt the true spirit of aloha, a reminder that illness may change what a person can do, but it does not diminish the need for dignity, friendship, belonging and joy.

A big thank you to Anna Derby and the Golden Age Foundation for the opportunity. That evening, Pam’s smile truly took center stage.

Editor’s Note: To help Pam Bartleson stay at home and meet mounting medical expenses, her family and friends started a GoFundMe page at gofund. me/5a23e78b8. Bartleson was a GRF Access bus driver for 10 years prior to falling ill.

Bryan Bartleson (l) and his brother Justin help their mom Pam Bartleson of Mutual 6 participate on stage at the GAF Multicultural Fest on July 18.

Ziggy Romano