Lana became a Friendly Visitor with Brella out of a deep sense of care for older adults — especially those facing loneliness or isolation. Older adults “often feel invisible,” she says. “I want to help them feel seen and heard.” Raised in the Maritimes, where elders were respected and community ties ran deep, Lana grew up surrounded by the idea that lending a hand to someone older was just what you did. That early value stayed with her and eventually inspired her to step into a volunteer role with Brella.

Her match through the program was a woman named Lorraine, and their connection quickly became something special. Lana describes their visits as filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and small adventures. “We had lots of fun together — little walks, sharing stories, and being creative,” she says. “I also enjoyed helping her with practical things when I could.” Their time together was easy and full of warmth — a reminder of how powerful simple companionship can be.

One particularly fond memory for Lana was decorating for the holidays. “I helped her put up a little Christmas tree and bought a gold sparkly star for the top,” she remembers. “I didn’t know she loved sparkly things, but it made perfect sense — Lorraine was a sparkly girl at heart.” That moment, like so many of their visits, reflected the quiet joy that can come from paying attention and sharing in someone else’s world.

Lana’s experience as a Friendly Visitor didn’t just make a difference in Lorraine’s life — it had a lasting impact on her own as well. “It was incredibly rewarding and inspiring,” she says. “When I think back on our time together, I feel grateful. She reminded me to stay strong, to find joy in small things, and to always approach life with positivity.”

To anyone considering becoming a Friendly Visitor, Lana wholeheartedly encourages it. “It’s such a meaningful way to give back,” she says. “You learn so much about yourself, and you gain a new perspective. Building a connection with an older adult, sharing time and kindness — it enriches your life more than you might expect.”

The Friendly Visitor program is more than just regular check-ins — it’s about building friendships, creating community, and making people feel valued. Lana’s story is a beautiful example of how a volunteer experience can turn into something truly memorable. “I feel honoured to have had the opportunity,” she says. “It’s something I’ll always carry with me.”

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1. Why did you become a Friendly Visitor Volunteer with Brella?
I became a Friendly Visitor Volunteer with Brella because I care about older adults, especially those who are isolated, as it can be quite lonely. Older people often feel invisible and I hope to help them feel seen and heard. I love listening to their stories about their lives. I was raised in the Maritimes where we cherished and respected our elders and lent a helping hand whenever we could.

2. Tell us about your time with your Friendly Visitor match.
My person when I was a Friendly Visitor was Lorraine. I truly enjoyed our time together. We had lots of laughs and fun. Lots of meaningful talks, stories, and little walks. I also enjoyed helping her with practical things and being creative. Lorraine was one of a kind. She enriched my life and I will treasure our memories. We were kindred spirits.

3. What is your most memorable memory from your time as a Friendly Visitor?
My most memorable memory of my time with Lorraine was Christmas 2021. I helped her put up a little Christmas tree and bought her a gold sparkly star to put on top of the tree. I didn’t know that she loved sparkly things — but of course, because Lorraine was a sparkly girl at heart.