Mabel is grateful for the support she receives through Neighbourhoods Food Programs.
“When I get up in the morning, I think, ‘can I make someone happy today, make them smile?’”
At 86 years old, Mabel has an incredibly positive outlook on life. It’s even more impressive knowing she doesn’t have long to live.
Mabel lives with heart failure and cancer, and is in pain every day – despite the medication she is taking. She doesn’t have enough money to pay for the dosage she needs. In fact, her medical costs have made it impossible for her to meet her basic needs.
“I didn’t have money for groceries, because I was spending so much on medicine,” said Mabel. “I was too proud to ask for help.”
A dear friend, Linda, finally convinced Mabel to get help – and brought her to House of Friendship’s Neighbourhoods Food Program, where she received the food she desperately needed. Now, a volunteer brings her food from the program, as Mabel cannot leave her home.
“I wouldn’t be surviving without this,” said Mabel.
Mabel has made friends with her volunteer, Mike, and works hard to brighten the days of those who visit her. She wants to make the most of every moment.
“I think this is why I’m still here. I can make people happy when they visit.”
Mabel is no stranger to hardship. At 35 years old, her husband of 18 years passed away suddenly because of a heart condition. That left Mabel alone to raise her three sons.
“I always worked. I took in 10 boarders to help pay the bills,” said Mabel. “And for my sons, I had to be their mother, their father, and their best friend.”
And because she had worked so hard her entire life, it was difficult for Mabel to ask for help.
Now, she wants others to know that there is no shame in accepting support during a difficult time.
“Don’t be too proud, like I was. Let people help,” said Mabel.
For those who donate to support people like her, Mabel has only this to say. “You don’t know how much good you are doing. You might be saving a life, and not even know it.”
Thank you for being there for Mabel. Your care and compassion makes all the difference!
Posted on: July 5th, 2024
