Getting older is a tricky business. 4 out of every 5 seniors battle some kind of chronic illness, like arthritis or osteoporosis, and 50% are confronted by two or more. Getting proper care for elderly people can be extremely difficult, as one elderly couple has learned. If there is no immediate family or a way to pay for additional care, be it part-time or full-time, it can be hard to be assured your older relatives are doing well. Thankfully, this older couple had an angel on their side. (1)
Tiki Edwards’ parents are aging. This has brought on health and mobility issues. Despite her and her siblings’ desires to be able to be there and help their parents every day, it is unfortunately not possible. Thankfully, her parents’ teenage neighbor took it upon himself to go over every day and make sure the elderly couple is doing okay. (2)
Teen Helps Elderly Couple Every Day Who Live Across The Street
Fifteen-year-old Romemylion Mitchell lives across the street from Tiki Edwards’ parents. Over their time as neighbors, the young man and the elderly couple have struck up an unlikely friendship. Now, Mitchell goes over to the couple’s house every day to help them with chores and make sure they are doing okay. Edwards was so grateful that she posted about it on her Facebook page, shortly after her mother had to go to the hospital because of some health issues.
“He checks on them every day and has grown to love and care for them deeply. He rides with Dad to the store, helps him shop and brings the groceries in .. he cuts the grass and whatever they may need. Not many 15 yr olds would take the time to care and be there for elderly neighbors.” Edwards wrote.
When her mother ended up in the hospital, she made sure Mitchell was notified right away. He went to the hospital as soon as he could to see her and broke down in tears when he saw his elderly friend in the hospital bed.
“When he saw Mom today he busted out crying and just held her tight .. what a blessing and just wanted to pass on something heartwarming instead of the sad news we see and hear every day.” she said.
A Viral Friendship
The story is as heartwarming as they come. Naturally, many people loved it and felt compelled to like, share, and comment. (3) The post, which Edwards’ posted in 2019, has now gone viral. Her post has 215,000 likes, 108,000 shares, and 29,000 comments. (1) In a year with plenty of bad news, this was exactly the kind of heartening story that everyone needed.
People commenting and sharing have applauded this boy. He has shown selflessness, kindness, and compassion that is not often seen from people his age. Hopefully, this story will inspire others of all ages to help each other out a little bit more.
Keep Reading: 12 Heartbreaking Things One Learns When Caring For Elderly Parents in Their Last Days
Sources
- “11 Facts About Old Age” Do Something
- “Tiki Edwards.” Facebook
- “Thousands Of People Are Applauding A 15-Year-Old Who Struck A Friendship With An Elderly Couple.” Inspire More. Ashley Ziegler. September 8, 2019.
