Building Access, Building Community: A Special Project for a Navy Veteran
When Billy, a disabled Navy Veteran living in Lynn, MA, needed safer access to his home, the Angers Gift crew stepped up in a big way. Led by Kenneth Cyr—CEO of both Angers Gift Apparel and KHC Electric—this heartfelt project brought together local businesses and community members to make a real difference.
Originally designed by EIM Consulting as a ramp, the plan evolved into a more effective solution: a concrete pad to support a full elevator lift. With the help of TJ (Founder of Angers Gift), Uncle Rick (Jedi), and the skilled team at Amore Electric, Billy now has a smoother, safer way to enter his home—and a powerful reminder that community always shows up when it matters most.
We'd like to thank EIM Consulting for the ramp/lift design, and thank Amore Electric for their electrical expertise for the Lynn lift project.
BILLY’S TESTIMONIAL
Written by his sister Annita V.
"My brother Billy suffers from Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy (OPMD), a genetic disorder that progressively weakens his muscles. The disease has ravaged Billy’s body to the point that he is confined to a wheelchair. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, and his condition will only worsen over time.
Billy became housebound and completely unable to leave his home. I knew I needed to do something to improve his quality of life, so I began reaching out to multiple organizations. Eventually, I was referred to Angers Peace. I spoke with T.J. Tedeschi and Ken Cyr, the co-founders of Angers Peace, and explained that Billy is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Navy. I hoped they might be able to guide me to someone who could finally help him.
They both came to meet Billy, taking the time to listen and understand his challenges. They recognized the toll the disease had taken on him both physically and emotionally and were determined to help. Initially, they considered a wheelchair ramp, but after careful thought, they decided he truly needed an electric chair lift. They set out to make it happen.
In just a couple of weeks, they raised funds, received donations, and delivered and installed a fully functional electric chair lift. More importantly, they gave Billy freedom from being housebound, dramatically improving his quality of life.
Because of T.J. and Ken’s efforts, Billy can now move in and out of his home, attend doctor visits, and—most importantly—look forward to a brighter future. My brother Billy and I will always be grateful for the help they gave him. We will never forget their kindness.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart."
Annita & Billy Votano
