99-Year-Old And High School Student Form Unlikely Friendship
March 2, 2021
A 99-year-old woman and a high school student in British Columbia have formed a wonderful friendship through a program that connects seniors with young people.
Myrtle MacDonald and Jaelyn Bjornerud-Brown / CBC
Myrtle MacDonald, 99, says she signed up for the local program after feeling isolated during the pandemic.
She was paired with Jaelyn Bjornerud-Brown, 17, based on their common interest — nursing.
"I just found her more interested and less in a hurry than I expected. It has filled an empty spot," MacDonald told CBC.
For the high school students participating, the time spent with seniors can be used toward volunteer hours needed for graduation. They're supposed to speak for 30 minutes each week, but many go far beyond that.
"I love and look forward to getting to talk to her every week. [We talk] about an hour and 15 minutes, the time just goes by so quickly," said Bjornerud-Brown.
Credit: CBC
MacDonald, a former nurse, spent much of her life teaching and living in other parts of the world helping people in need.
The stories are inspiring to Bjornerud-Brown, who also wants to become a nurse.
"In high school they kind of say you go to school, you get a job, you have kids. It's a linear thing [but] talking to her has made me realize I don't have to limit myself to one thing. I can have it all," she said.
According to the Compassionate Neighbourhood Health Partners Society, the program has been a blessing to both seniors and high school students. Due to the pandemic, seniors can't meet with their families and students are having trouble getting their volunteer hours.
"And there's been a huge positive response from them," said the program's organizer Connie Stam.
"We have a 94-year-old man connected with a 16-year-old and he is writing his memoir for him. The 16-year-old says it's just amazing all the stories."
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
This Mother Bear Doing Her Best To Get Her Cubs Across The Road
Professor Shares The Best True Excuse A Student Used For Missing An Assignment
Man On Walk Shares Wholesome Photos Of Dogs Posing For Group Photo On Bridge
'I Feel Loved Every Single Day': Daughter Pens Heartfelt Thank You For Adoptive Parents
The Obituary Of Matt Groening's Mother Explains The Origins Of The Simpsons
This Dog Hiding Blueberries In His Mouth Is Going To Make You Laugh
Husband Roasts Wife For Her Overuse Of Lip Stick
First Date Fail! Nervous Raccoon Tries To Make A Move On The Cat
Deaf Puppy Is So Excited To Be Woken Up By Owner When He Gets Home From Work
Rabbit Insists On Walking Under Cat's Legs In Hilarious Video