When knee surgery made everyday tasks more difficult, Cleo Jones began looking for ways to make life a little easier.
The 72-year-old Birmingham native has lived alone since the loss of his wife to breast cancer. So, even though he was recovering from surgery, he had to fend for himself. Then he found United Way Meals on Wheels.
“[Even] before Meals on Wheels, things were a lot harder,” Jones said. But knee surgery made getting up and trying to cook for himself almost impossible.
“Once Meals on Wheels started, I could heat up a meal, enjoy it and not have to worry about trying to make something.”
Nearly a year later, the home-delivery program remains an important part of his routine…and life.
Making Daily Life Easier
For Jones, having nutritious meals delivered to his home means one less thing to worry about each day. Rather than spending time and energy preparing meals, he can now focus on tending to the flowers and tomato plants in his yard and spending time with the people he cares about.
The reliability of the service is something he especially appreciates.
“I was about to leave the house, and my meal showed up just like it always does,” he said. “Knowing it was there waiting for me [when I got back] made one less thing I had to think about.”
Moments such as that are a reminder for Jones that he doesn’t have to plan his day around preparing meals. Whether he’s working in the yard or spending time with family, he knows a meal will be waiting for him when he gets home.
“They’ve been really good,” Jones said. “And they’re always on time.”
The Difference a Meal Can Make
When asked what he would say to the people who support Meals on Wheels, Jones was quick to express his gratitude.
“It’s a blessing,” he said. “There are so many people who don’t have family nearby or don’t have anybody to help them. Having a meal means a lot.”
Because of that, he hopes others who may need assistance know that support is available.
“Sometimes you’ve just got to keep going,” Jones said. “There’s always somebody willing to help.”
With meals delivered to his home, Jones can spend less time worrying about what’s for dinner and more time enjoying the routines and relationships that matter most to him.
To learn more about Meals on Wheels and how you can get involved, click here.