Sunday, June 15, 2014
Last Sunday was, as we all know, Father’s Day and I was allowed the honor of photographing Alvin McGarity as he visited with his son Keith at a group home in McDonough. Alvin, who turns 85 July 1, drives from his home in Hampton to McDonough to spend time with his son at least once a week. Keith, who was born with Down’s syndrome, was institutionalized for almost 50 years until about three years ago, when he moved from a state psychiatric hospital to this group home. The love and devotion Alvin shows for his son is amazing. Talking with him, helping him with his favorite drink, Hawaiian Punch, playing John Philip Sousa marches on an old timey looking radio. Keith is almost completely non verbal at this point but spending time with the pair it seemed that Alvin knew what the grunts and groans that his son made meant. It was an amazing opportunity and I thank the both of them for letting me share a glimpse of the time they spend together each week.
Alvin McGarity (left) leans down to say hello to his son Keith at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Alvin McGarity (right) holds his son Keith as he helps him stand up from his wheelchair at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Alvin McGarity (left) helps his son Keith with a cup of fruit punch at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Alvin McGarity (left hands) helps his son Keith with a cup of fruit punch at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Alvin McGarity (left) visits with his son Keith at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Keith McGarity looks at his hands as he visits with his father Alvin (not pictured) at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Keith McGarity (right) sits on his bed as his father Alvin visits with him at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Alvin McGarity (center) helps his son Keith with a cup of water at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Alvin McGarity turns on a John Philip Sousa march as he visits with his son Keith at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.
Keith McGarity (right) holds his father Alvin’s hand as he visits with him at the Southern Community Living Group home in McDonough on Sunday, June 15, 2014.