As the holidays approach, Louise feels a comforting sense of calm. She knows that, as always, Marie-Andrée will be at her side to share these precious moments. For four years now, her volunteer has been there every week.
At 81 years of age, our Great Friend is surprised that she knocked on the door of Little Brothers 13 years ago. Like thousands of seniors in Quebec, she hadn’t planned to grow old alone. But after the death of her husband, Montreal suddenly seemed like a very big place.
“I never thought loneliness would catch up with me,” she confides. “But fortunately, Marie-Andrée came into my life, and everything changed.”
A presence you can count on
For Louise, Marie-Andrée is much more than a volunteer: she’s a kind-hearted woman with whom she can confide, share memories and laugh.
What touches her most is knowing that Marie-Andrée will stay by her side, whatever happens. A few years ago, after a nasty fall, Louise had to spend three long months in hospital, then in rehabilitation. “During all that time, Marie-Andrée was there for me, always ready to give me the best of herself. ”
A time to give, another to receive
When it comes to giving of herself, Louise knows her stuff. A career nurse, she also helped raise her husband’s six children, with all the simplicity and devotion of a woman for whom family comes first.
“When I look back on my life, I’m happy and I think it’s beautiful. I tell myself that this optimism helps me to appreciate each moment shared with Marie-Andrée even more.”
Of course, there are times when nostalgia intrudes, especially during the holiday season. But these moments of gloom are rarer now that Louise can count on her friend.
“Before Marie-Andrée, the holiday season was sad and empty,” she confides. “Now my heart is full of hope again.”
“Everyone should have a Marie-Andrée in their life”
Louise encourages all seniors suffering from loneliness to contact Little Brothers.
“It won’t always be a perfect match, but the affinities that develop can often surprise. After all, it never hurts to try!”
In December, offer a moment of warmth to other Louise
This holiday season, like the rest of the year, your generosity can transform lives. Together, let’s offer all Louise’s these moments of comfort. Your gesture will be the promise of an essential presence, the most precious of gifts.
