Pearlie G. Picture

Pearlie G.

Pearlie Guyton has lived at Farnsworth House for the past six years, but her roots in the neighborhood run deep. For half a century, she resided across the street in affordable housing, where she raised her children and built a life full of memories. Her journey through the ups and downs of life is a testament to her resilience, strength, and sense of humor.

In 2005, Pearlie faced a daunting health scare when doctors discovered a non-cancerous growth on her brain. The surgery left her with 52 stitches and, mercifully, an end to the headaches that had plagued her. Despite this, Pearlie’s attitude remained unwavering. After all, she had seen worse in her lifetime.

For 30 years, Pearlie worked at the prestigious Harvard Law Library, starting out as a clerk who checked out books to eager law students. Her work ethic and dedication earned her one promotion after another until she found herself in charge of the Buildings and Fines department. Pearlie became well-known to generations of law students, including a young Barack Obama, who she remembers fondly. When Obama graduated, it was Pearlie who sent him a bill for overdue library books—a fact that still makes her chuckle. Pearlie’s other high-profile connections include Justice Stephen Breyer, whose thoughtful Christmas gifts always brought a smile to her face. By the time she retired, Elizabeth Warren was among the many who came to celebrate her years of service.

But Pearlie’s life was not without challenges. She has lived with diabetes for years, and in 2019, the disease took a significant toll on her health. First came open-heart surgery, and later, complications from diabetes began affecting her feet. What began with the amputation of two toes on her left foot and two on her right spiraled into the loss of her leg below the knee. After a long, grueling stay in the hospital and a rehabilitation center, Pearlie returned to Farnsworth House eight months later. She had to move to a wheelchair-accessible apartment, and while she’s still unpacking, she refuses to let her circumstances get her down.

Ever determined to maintain her independence, Pearlie has drawn clear boundaries for the aides who help her. While they may do her laundry, she insists on folding and putting it away herself, using her old chair commode as a makeshift table. She prepares her own breakfast, washes her own dishes, and walks the fine line between what she can do and what she needs help with—always with her trademark dignity.

Pearlie’s children remain close to her heart. She raised two girls and a boy, and her youngest daughter, a nurse, is a particular comfort as she helps Pearlie care for her bandages. But Pearlie’s sense of community extends beyond her family. After moving into Rogerson House, she joined the Fitness First program, which became an integral part of her weekly routine. Despite being in a wheelchair, Pearlie’s determination allowed her to strengthen her limbs enough to walk with a cane. The exercise also eased her heart problems, improving her breathing and making everyday chores less painful.

These days, Pearlie isn’t able to participate in Fitness First as much as she’d like—physical therapy and nurse visits leave her exhausted—but once her toes heal, she’s eager to get back on the machines.

Pearlie Guyton’s story is one of perseverance, humor, and unwavering resolve. Even in the face of life-altering challenges, she continues to live with grace, fiercely holding on to her independence while looking forward to the brighter days ahead.