Wanda, who was 90 years old at the time, said that she felt very alone and all by herself. It’s a common feeling among older people, who often outlive their friends and, in some cases, don’t even have a family to take care of them.
Wanda knew how much she needed to interact with other people, so she decided to take matters into her own hands. She wrote a note and stuck it to the front door of her neighbor, whose name was Marleen Brooks and who lived in San Francisco, California.
Wanda’s letter was a simple request that came straight from her heart.
The note read:
Would you consider to become my friend. I’m 90 years old- live alone. All my friends have passed away. I’m so lonesome and scared. Please I pray for someone.
The next night, Marleen and a friend went to Wanda’s house to introduce themselves. On that visit, she also brought cupcakes.
After everything was over, Marleen wrote a letter to KTVU News reporter Frank Somerville to tell him what had happened
Frank!
She’s such a sweet lady!
And she was over the moon when we came over.
Wanda said:
‘I hope you didn’t think I was stupid for writing you, but I had to do something.
Thank you so much for coming over.
I’ve lived here for 50 years and don’t know any of my neighbors.’
Wanda has 3 sons, one died last year of cancer.
The other two live far away.
She’s 90 and and is on oxygen and has congestive heart failure, osteoporosis, among other ailments.
We brought her cupcakes (didn’t have enough time with work to make the banana bread).
I also made sure she knew she can call us at anytime and that I’ll be back to spend time with her!
I’m sure Wanda and I will have some great times.”
After Wanda told her story, dozens and dozens of people took the time to read her letter and then share it on Facebook.
I love this story,
Frank wrote in response.
And I’m so happy for Wanda. But as I said in my first post, there are so many others out there who are lonely just like Wanda. I would ask that maybe you consider knocking on their door and saying hi. I know it would mean the world to them. And who knows, maybe you’ll make a new friend.
This is great advice that you should follow. You could also consider volunteering at a senior center or an assisted living facility in your area. There are many ways to reach out and make a difference.
Marleen says that one reason she decided to tell her story was to remind people that there are a lot of lonely people in the world. Especially the elderly. She added,
If you know someone like that in your neighborhood maybe consider going over to their home and saying hi. Maybe bring them some cookies too. I guarantee that you will make their day. But at the same time you may also make a new friend. How great would that be?
People like Marleen, who go out of their way to be Wanda’s friend and spend time with her, warm our hearts. Let us know in the comments if you agree.
