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The Meals on Wheels volunteer knocks on the door; there’s no answer. He strikes again, but still no answer. He calls the elderly gentleman who typically answers his cell phone, but the phone keeps ringing. He’s about to leave when he realizes there isn’t a container outside the door for the Meals on Wheels delivery. There’s always a cooler when the recipient isn’t home. Something doesn’t feel right. He decides to try the door handle.

The door opens, and he hears a moan.  Lying on the floor is his client, *Joe (who is more like a friend at this point), who has fallen and is unable to get up. Joe’s phone was out of his reach. Joe does not have a medical alert device and has no way to alert somebody that he is in trouble.

https://buffalonews.com/opinion/article_acd789f4-faa2-4468-b734-a62e950e926b.html

He quickly bends down to talk to Joe.  His instinct is to help him up, but he knows that is a dangerous move and can potentially cause more harm to Joe. He dials 911 and sits with Joe until the ambulance arrives. He discusses the possibility that Joe might need more assistance than his current situation allows. You see, this is the second time that he helped Joe in a crisis. 

The EMTs arrive and whisk Joe to the hospital.  Joe is incredibly thankful for the rescue.

The Meals on Wheels Volunteer completes the remainder of his route delivering food and kindness to individuals who need assistance.

What if You Weren’t There?

The story is recounted to me later that day.  I couldn’t help but think, “OMG! You saved this man! What if you weren’t there?  What if Joe didn’t have Meals on Wheels, and YOU checking on him?  What if you didn’t have the instinct to open his door?  What if you just walked away and assumed Joe wasn’t home?”  Who knows how long Joe would have lain on the floor, trapped by his fragility.

You Are Not Alone, There Are People in Your Community Who Care

But he didn’t walk away, and perhaps the people who choose to deliver food for Meals on Wheels are the same people who don’t just walk away. Many individuals can live independently due to the day-to-day delivery of food and well-checks.  This program helps those who are homebound, those who are unable to leave their homes or prepare food.  It enables some people to continue living independently for a longer period.  It’s also helpful for caregivers and family members who feel some peace that their loved one is eating and getting a “How are you doing?” from a caring volunteer.

This story, along with many others, reminds me of the crucial role that Meals on Wheels volunteers play in our community. The daily visits from volunteers for Meals on Wheels are essential for so many recipients.  Not only are two nutritious meals delivered, but it is also a well-check to ensure the recipient is okay. A statement that “you are not alone, there are people in your community who care.” 

Meals on Wheels – So More Than Food. 

The” he” in this essay is my friend.  He does not want recognition for what he thinks anybody would do if they were in that situation—another trait for a silent hero.

How many lives have been saved because somebody knocked on a door to deliver food and check on their friends on the route?  Meals on Wheels is a lifeline, ensuring the health and safety of our community members. Meals on Wheels – More than Food.  So much more.