“I hadn’t received so much free love in a long time. I was overwhelmed.”
It’s on this very touching note that we open our conversation with Madame Bertrand, a Big Friend of Little Brothers for three years now.
The moment she recalls with emotion refers to the few days she spent at the Domaine Juliette-Huot, a unique summer vacation spot where, like her, hundreds of isolated seniors are invited every year.
A memory she describes as unforgettable: “I don’t think I’ve ever met people with such big hearts,” she says. Yet Ms. Bertrand knows more about big hearts than anyone, having devoted 40 years of her life to community work.
Life’s challenges
Growing old also brought its share of adversity for our Great Friend. As the pandemic unfolded, she faced the prospect of a stroke and the loss of many friends. Crossing paths with Little Brothers certainly helped ease this trying time. Her first words of gratitude go to Dominique, her regional coordinator:
“She has contributed so much to making my life easier! I’m very fond of her. Last year, she was at the hospital when I broke my hip. Today, she’s going out of her way to match me with a volunteer.
Big hearts looking for big hearts
Madame Bertrand is one of the Great Friends waiting for a new volunteer in her life. Such support would be a great comfort to her, given her inability to get around on her own.
“I’ve always been a very, very independent person. Today, it’s more difficult. I can’t hide the fact that it would also do me good to develop a bond with someone. You don’t tell your life story to just anyone, you know. These volunteers are extraordinary and they really care about you. You pick up on that quickly, when you’ve spent your life wanting to do good for others.”
Madame Bertrand, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your trust! Counting you in the Little Brothers family is both a joy and an honor. Your future volunteer will soon discover this. After all, big hearts know big hearts.
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