"True Joy"

Greensboro, NC- If you were to see the Hospice staff leaving the home of David and Shirley Redden, more than likely you would see smiles on their faces. Mr. David Redden brings so much joy to those who know him, and his witty jokes always have them laughing. However, the disease that has affected Mr. Redden for over 20 years is no laughing matter. David was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1985. This news was very devastating for him and his wife, Shirley, to hear. Mrs. Redden commented, “It was like the whole world was weighing down on our shoulders when we heard the news…we just couldn’t believe that this was happening.”

During this time, Mr. Redden had been employed with the City of Greensboro as a HVAC technician for only 1 year; however, David was able to continue to work for the city of Greensboro for over 10 years before retirement. His early retirement in 1995 was prompted by a further decline of health. This forced Mr. Redden to retire before he was technically eligible for Medicaid. Because of this the Reddens were concerned that they would not be able to make ends meet financially. “This was totally in God’s hands and He came through for us in this situation,” added Mrs. Redden. They were able to apply for and receive early Medicare benefits. Shirley also worked for the city of Greensboro with the Police Department and retired in July of 2005.

The Reddens (pictured above) were introduced to each other in 1970 by family and were married a short time later on May 29, 1970. When asked about what they first noticed about each other they commented. “He was a total gentleman,” Shirley said. “She was very pretty,” shared David. The Reddens have 2 sons, David, Jr. and Derrick; they also have 5 grandchildren ranging from age 10 years to 15 months. The Reddens are members of Sure Foundation Baptist Church.  

As previously stated, David has a way of brining cheer to the hearts of those he meets. According to those who know Mr. Redden, the most amazing thing about his character is the fact that he never complains about the disease that has stolen his independence. His friends and family say that he is the true depiction of hope in the midst of hopelessness. “Every morning I come into his room and he has a big smile on his face,” shared his wife. “I ask him why he’s always smiling and he says ‘You have to have something to smile about.’ God has lifted us up through this time; we could not have survived without Him.”

The Reddens were asked if they would like to share anything with those reading this article. Shirley responded, “God is the only one who can fill the voids in our lives. If you don’t know Jesus as your Savior, please ask him to forgive you of your sins and take control of your life.” This is where the Reddens find their source of joy.

-Written by Jared Reeder

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