“I really don’t do that much,” shares the very humble Kristin Schwall. But in fact, her one hour a week at the grocery store makes a world of difference to Eloise and her husband, Ron. Eloise is blind, and Ron has a chronic health condition, so going to the grocery store is a risk and challenge.
About a year ago, Kristin had some extra time on her hands. “I’d just become an empty nester,” shares Kristin. “After attending the orientation, I liked the idea of grocery shopping. I’m going to the store for myself anyway. Why not help someone else in the process?” Kristin was matched with Eloise, and before COVID-19 they shopped together every other week. “I marvel at her ability to pick the best veggies and having all of the product brands memorized,” smiles Kristin. “Now with COVID guidelines, Eloise emails me her shopping list, and I shop for her. She’s super tech savvy. I text her receipt total as I leave the store, and she tapes a check to rolling carts on her doorstep. I fill the carts with her groceries, and she brings them inside after I leave. It’s a great system.”
Kristin adds, “But it’s really lonely shopping without her. The first time I called her from the store, I realized how much I really miss our conversations. We’ve become friends. I also realize how much being with her makes me feel better. But for now, this is working, and it makes me feel good to know she has what she needs to stay safe in her home.
Photographer’s note:
Their bond is almost palpable. Using our long-distance lens, we captured Kristin sharing a few special moments with Eloise. She sees only Kristin’s shadow through the window, but they both have their cell phones out and enjoy catching up on their pets, their families, and their friendship.