At Mrs. Marchand’s home, afternoons often unfold to the rhythm of shuffled cards. When we arrive, she and her volunteer, Sylvie, are deep into a game of Skip-Bo. This time, Sylvie is in the lead — but at 96 years old, the Great Friend of Little Brothers hasn’t lost her competitive spirit.
“Cards are part of our visits,” explains Sylvie. “We sit down, catch up a little, and then—out comes the deck of cards! With a glass of soda and a few chips, of course — Mrs. Marchand insists! It’s our ritual.”
For the past two and a half years, Sylvie and her partner, Jocelyn, have been visiting their Great Friend regularly. But they do far more than play cards — they make sure she’s doing well, help with small tasks, and bring a burst of joy and color to her days.
“I’m so spoiled,” she exclaims. “My husband and my children have passed away, and it’s as if they’ve replaced them. They fix things around the house, cook little meals for me, invite me into their family, and take me out. You have no idea how much they do for me. They bring me peace of mind and make my life so much easier.”
Precious Moments Shared Together
Beyond the help they provide at home, their bond holds a special place in all their lives.
“Mrs. Marchand is such a kindhearted person — attentive, funny, always present,” says Sylvie. “She appreciates us, and we appreciate her — and that’s where the magic happens. She’s become a friend, a real member of the family.”
The day of our visit, Mrs. Marchand, Sylvie, and Jocelyn were getting ready for a dinner out. For the couple, these outings with their Great Friend are among their favorite moments together.
They never hesitate to make time for them: dinners and gatherings organized by Little Brothers, bowling or bingo nights, family celebrations, birthday parties — every occasion is an excuse to share good times.
“I love it so much that they don’t even know I’m capable of saying no!” laughs Mrs. Marchand as Sylvie lists their many activities.
Aging at Home, Surrounded by Memories
It’s been nearly twenty years since her husband passed away, and Mrs. Marchand has been managing on her own ever since.
“My husband was often sick toward the end of his life, so I learned to mow the lawn, shovel snow, wash walls and windows. I even drove my car until last year — for 75 years! Now I can’t anymore, but I still do my housework and go for a walk every day, summer or winter. Jocelyn and Sylvie are never far away, and that lifts my spirits. I often say they’re two rays of sunshine entering my home.”
Sylvie is visibly proud to help her Great Friend stay in her home for as long as she can.
“Mrs. Marchand had her children in this house. Her heart is here. She deserves to stay surrounded by her memories and her sense of home. If, through small gestures, we can help make that possible, then that’s wonderful.”
Sylvie becomes emotional when we tell her how deeply her generosity shines through.
“I’ve always cared for older people,” she admits softly. “Reaching out to others and easing loneliness — it’s just part of who I am and what I value. Mrs. Marchand teaches me so much about life and about my own aging. She gives me so much love and happiness in return.”
“Try it — don’t be afraid,” she concludes with a smile.
“There’s always someone wonderful to discover on the other side.”
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