Gerald Martin wants to say thanks to his "angel," who showed him compassion and generosity, while others could not. (Special to The News)

Gerald Martin wants to say thanks to his "angel," who showed him compassion and generosity, while others could not. (Special to The News)

LETTER: Maple Ridge octogenarian grateful to angel for kindness amid outbreak

Shopper at Save-On-Foods demonstrated compassion and generosity to senior shopping during COVID-19

Dear Editor,

Like many pensioners in this city, I’m self isolated a lot of the time, regardless of such as the COVID-19 threat.

But today, I had to buy groceries.

So I walked to the nearest Save-On [Foods] store because they sell what’s often called “fake meat.”

It’s made for vegans and vegetarians who won’t eat “real” meat.

While in the store I was jostled and stumbled because a young woman was preoccupied with her own concerns.

READ RELATED: Meridian Meats in Maple Ridge opens its doors to those who feel most at risk for COVID-19

A nearby lady asked if I was OK.

I thanked her and said I was.

A few minutes later, despite that the store was out of my favourite “meat,” I started at the self checkout.

Suddenly the lady who had earlier asked if I was OK was at my elbow.

She asked if she could scan her single item on my transaction, saying that she would, of course, pay for her own.

As I was bagging my few items she scanned hers then told me she would pay for mine.

I said it wasn’t necessary, but before I could finish properly she took her item then handed me the paid receipt as she walked away.

I thanked her, of course, but she left so quickly I was still in a daze.

Iwish this octogenarian could thank this angel properly.

Whoever and wherever you are, I thank you from my heart and assure you that your act of paying it forward will be carried on.

Gerald Martin, Maple Ridge

.

READ MORE: Grocery stores hiring more staff, offer wage boost as B.C. adapts to COVID-19 buying habits

.

• If there is more to this story, please let us know about it. Email us at editor@mapleridgenews.com. We look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Maple Ridge News