Harold’s Story

When Harold Jordan retired, he sold his house and moved to a senior apartment building. When he learned he could have access to a ‘free bus’ for seniors, he hopped on. Literally.

During the process, something really terrific happened for Harold. He met Dick, a retired truck driver who volunteered to drive the free bus and, as a volunteer driver through United Way’s Open Your Heart to a Senior initiative, could transport him to various appointments.

“I’m a big believer in giving back,” Harold explained. “I volunteered with seniors years ago, I guess when I was in my 30s, 40s and 50s. You set an example, and then you become a senior yourself. Someone will step in to help you, like Dick is now.”

To meet Harold now, and try to keep up with his active lifestyle, you wouldn’t know that he’d had hip replacement surgery just a year ago. “I am lucky,” Harold admitted, “My road to recovery has been easier than I anticipated. I continue to walk every day. I am blessed.”

Volunteer driver Dick has helped Harold get around. “We go to the doctor, hospital, shopping, pick up prescriptions,” Harold added. Through the course of their travels, a true friendship blossomed and now the two get together several times a week.

“We’ve become workout buddies and get together to go walking almost daily,” Harold explains of their routine. It even inspired Dick to adopt a healthier lifestyle. “The friendship that came out of this is more than I could have imagined.”

“Dick is a great guy,” Harold says with a smile. “We met and just connected. It seemed like an instant bond. Like super glue.”