Senior Living: A helpful hand … or two

Here’s a heartfelt tribute to those who give of themselves to others

Published Jan 06, 2025  •  3 minute read

Many people go beyond the call of duty, extending a helping hand to those in need. It is important to acknowledge and commemorate their solicitude.  Photo by Getty Images/iStockphoto

One of my favourite sayings that was often quoted by the late, great Audrey Hepburn, goes like this: “Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, it’s at the end of your arm. As you get older, remember you have another hand: The first is to help yourself, the second is to help others.”

I think of this quote (originally written in a poem by humorist Sam Levenson) often and especially now that we have wrapped up another year.

Article content

I can’t help but look back and reflect on the blessings around us, like the people and services that help us most in our lives. It’s nice to take a moment to acknowledge those who helped make things run more smoothly.

Here are some, but not all, of the people and institutions in my life who’ve helped me, in alphabetical order.

A is for Antonietta, my hairdresser whom most people call Toni, but I like to use her Italian name. Her salon was next door to where I live and she has taken care of my locks for the past 38 years. But she has been helpful in other ways as well, accompanying me four times as I received COVID-19 injections, doing errands, surprising me with homemade lasagna. She has recently moved her salon, but her kindness continues.

C is for the computer and for Richard the computer-fixer. I call the computer my friend, my foe — but when a problem appears all I have to do is call Richard, who fixes the problem in no time. Just knowing I can count on him gives me peace of mind.

D is for my lady dentist Dr. Treena Coull, who keeps my mouth in working order. I make sure to visit regularly so my teeth and gums stay well. Otherwise, damage could even affect heart health.

Article content

F salutes my family doctor Dr. Benoit Lapierre and the wonderful team at the Local Community Services Centre, one of many Quebec health centres. Whether it is for a blood test, examination or complaint, they are a phone call away or I visit the nearby centre where my doctor works.

G is for Dr. Julius Gomolin, a retina specialist working at Montreal’s Jewish General Hospital who has been treating my AMD (age-related macular degeneration) for the past 12 years. A lucky recipient of his skill and knowledge, I also enjoy the services of his team members — Jamie the technician and Leila the secretary and the scan provider — who are as helpful and efficient as the Boss himself.

H is for hearing and the aid needed these days. It is provided by a company that not only keeps my hearing aids in working order but also gifts me with a pen and candies along with the batteries.

J is for Jean Coutu, the pharmacy that supplies me with the medications I need and where the floor clerk takes my toiletry orders. Just a phone call and everything is delivered to my door. What could be easier?

M goes to Meals on Wheels and the grocery store that delivers my food orders. I sometimes like to cook, but delicious ready-to-eat meals are also welcome.

Article content

N stands for neighbours, and here the prize goes to my wonderful neighbours Ivor and Michelle. Big or small problems, all I do is knock on their door across the hall and help is available. A very busy couple, they always find time to answer my call for help.

P is for pedicure and Elizabeth, the kind lady who takes care of my feet and puts a spring in my step with her excellent work.

R is for Rebecca, the manager and caretaker of my apartment building. I could not ask for a kinder, more efficient and helpful person and am so lucky she appeared in my life. Rebecca also has a team of helpers, Ahmed the plumber and Jacob the technician, who keep my apartment running smoothly.

S speaks for spiritual needs, supplied by St. Monica’s parish and its pastor, Father Jaison Joseph. The 75th anniversary fundraising drive hopes to collect money for ongoing needs and repairs.

T goes to transportation and to the paratransit service in Montreal. The driver picks you up at your door and escorts you to the door at your destination. It’s efficient and free — what more could I ask for?

Many thanks to my helpers. Wishing one and all a very happy new year.

— Alice Lukacs writes the Life in the 90s column

Article content