Love, Strength, and the Gift of Time: Lucy & Donald’s Story

Meet Lucy and Donald, devoted husband and wife, who have shared more than 62 years of love, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Their story began in New York City when Lucy was just 16 and Donald was 17. Having recently moved from Altmar, NY, Lucy found herself struggling to adjust to life in Brooklyn. One fateful day in the park, as she faced the cruelty of childhood teasing, Donald stepped in to defend her. That moment sparked a love story that would stand the test of time.

Donald, a man of kindness and integrity, won over Lucy’s family with his compassion. He visited his mother every day and selflessly helped care for Lucy’s grandmother, who relied on a feeding tube. His love for Lucy was evident from the very beginning, and it only grew stronger as they built their life together.

They bought their first home in the city, married, and raised a son who would later bless them with three beautiful grandchildren. Eventually, they settled in Syracuse, where Donald rebuilt their home—brick by brick, just as he had built their life together.

Now in their 80s, Lucy and Donald continue to cherish the home they have loved for decades. But as time passed, the challenges of aging became more difficult to manage. Lucy, now Donald’s caregiver, found herself struggling to keep up with the demands of daily life. That’s when Meals on Wheels of Syracuse stepped in to help.

Lucy shares her heartfelt experience:

“I am 80 and my husband is 81 years old. I am his caregiver. Prior to Meals on Wheels, I felt so overwhelmed, alone, upset, tired, and sick since I have medical issues of my own. It has been quite difficult for me to get our meals prepared, since I had to go to the store and leave him alone. I felt pressured. I would just hide my tears. I kept trying to keep a happy face.

Meals on Wheels has given me the freedom to take better care of my husband. You see, we have been married 62 years, and now that he is sick, I want this time to sit and talk with him, listen to him, even observe changes in his medical behaviors. Just be present. Meals on Wheels has offered me that time.

Thank you, Meals on Wheels, and thank you to all the volunteers who take time to care—to not only deliver food but to check on us. You see, volunteers, you not only feed the body, but you also feed the soul because you care. God Bless.” Lucy on behalf of Lucy & Donald

Lucy’s words remind us all that Meals on Wheels is more than a meal—it’s a gift of time, love, and dignity. Because of the generosity of our volunteers and supporters, couples like Lucy and Donald can stay together in the home they cherish, surrounded by the love they’ve built over a lifetime.