Christmas is often seen as a time for kindness, but for a young couple in the UK, their generous gesture 50 years ago radically altered their lives. On December 23, 1975, Rob and Dianne Parsons were preparing for the holidays at their Cardiff residence when a knock at the door led them to Ronnie Lockwood, a man clutching a bin bag filled with his belongings and a frozen chicken. Recognizing Ronnie from his Sunday School days, Rob inquired about the chicken. When Ronnie explained it was a gift, Rob unexpectedly invited him in—a choice that would transform their lives.
In their late twenties at the time, Rob and Dianne welcomed Ronnie, who was autistic, allowing him to cook his chicken, take a bath, and stay for Christmas. This initial act of goodwill evolved into a unique 45-year relationship that lasted until Ronnie's passing.
Rob and Dianne, who now reflect on Ronnie's enriching presence in their lives, had only been married for four years when they took him into their home. Ronnie, nearing 30, had been homeless since age 15, drifting through Cardiff without permanent work. To make him feel accepted, they encouraged their family to bring him holiday gifts, ranging from socks to toiletries. Dianne recalls the emotional moment Ronnie received his gifts, profoundly moved by this demonstration of affection.
Initially planning to keep Ronnie only until after Christmas, the couple decided they couldn't send him back to the streets. Seeking guidance, they were informed that Ronnie needed an address to secure employment, yet he required a job for an address—a classic Catch-22 faced by those without a home.
Rob later discovered through book research that Ronnie had been placed in a care home at age eight and subsequently sent away to a distant school for 'subnormal boys.' Ronnie's experiences there left him friendless and without a dedicated social worker or teacher, and he returned to Cardiff at 15 with nothing.
Despite initial social awkwardness and limited conversation, Rob and Dianne grew to love Ronnie. He eventually found work as a waste collector, and the couple assisted him in buying new clothes to replace the ones he'd worn since his school days. Ronnie also found a sense of belonging and fulfillment in helping care for their children, especially when Dianne was dealing with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Through the years, Rob and Dianne came to cherish Ronnie, whose influence and love left an indelible mark on their family, demonstrating the powerful impact of a simple act of holiday generosity.