In the late 1940s, 15-year-old Maurice was so inspired to serve his country that he lied about his age to join the service. Through his military career, he traveled the world --especially enjoying his time in Germany. Maurice talked about his time in the army with pride.
When Maurice was 21 he married the love of his life, Hazel. The two became inseparable--raising a family, joining a ministry together, building a fulfilling life.
As Maurice aged, he began to face medical issues. The life he and Hazel had built became more challenging as she was faced with his full-time care and little support.
Navigating resources available to seniors wasn’t something Hazel was comfortable with, so she called us. Our Meals on Wheels program began delivering meals to the couple. Once we were invited into the home, our Care Management staff connected Hazel with the in-home supportive services Maurice required. When our Fall Prevention program was asked to assess Maurice’s balance issues, Hazel joined her husband in our recommended exercise program to keep him motivated. To keep Hazel from becoming isolated and feeling alone, our Friendly Visitors program has matched her with a weekly volunteer visitor.
Hazel is extremely appreciative for all of the support she has received from Meals on Wheels Diablo Region. “I thank and praise God for Meals on Wheels Diablo Region which brought me and my husband such help. The volunteers that have been to my home were so kind and caring. I thank you all.”
Coordinated Care--it’s a phrase that means our support model provides an umbrella of services to meet the variety of needs seniors face. Industry terminology aside, seniors like Maurice and Hazel are why we do what we do in the community.