To all the loving lolos and lolas all over the world, Happy Grandparent’s Day!
Today, we celebrate and honor the influence and joy our grandfathers and grandmothers made in our lives. This is the moment we thank them for all the love and sacrifices they’ve given to us and acknowledge their importance and role in the family. I hope we can make them feel loved, cared for, appreciated and needed not only today but all the days to come.
I must admit I’m a lolo and lola’s girl. I love them with all my heart. Being the first granddaughter on both paternal and maternal sides of the family, I felt all the unconditional love and attention from my grandparents making me think that I am their favorite among their grandchildren. They showered me with a special kind of love incomparable to the kind of affection my parents gave me. My childhood was more memorable and happier because of them. When my grandfathers passed away years ago, it was so heartbreaking, but what hurt me most was seeing my lolas grieve. That’s why, I can’t help but be emotional and nostalgic as I write this post.
My Lola (father side) and Nanay Cely (mother side)
While my grandparents are happily enjoying their old age with us, there are also lolos and lolas who are not in their respective families and living in an institution called home for the aged.
And, to celebrate this momentous event, Jollibee hosted a special party for the elders under the care of Kanlungan ni Maria.The elders were ushered by the whole Jollibee team headed by the iconic mascot himself to a nearby chapel for the program.
Kanlungan ni Maria (home for the aged) is a residential institution that aims to provide the elderly a family and home environment wherein they could live better and dignified life. While in the home, the staff and volunteers provides them with love, care, attention and maintain their daily needs. The institution will help in locating those residents with missing families and relatives for the purpose of reconciliation. In case no family member can be traced a long-term placement in the home will be provided to them.
Kanlungan ni Maria :
Address: #17 Lanzones Road, Nayong Silangan Antipolo City, 1870
Telephone/Fax Numbers: 650-8102
Cellphone Number: 0915-6002631
Email Address: kanlungannimaria@yahoo.com
Marissa Sanchez serenaded them with a song number.
The event was like a children’s party. The elders were all happy to see this iconic and well-loved mascot around. The beautiful smiles in their faces made me realize how Jollibee captured the hearts of everyone – young and old over the years. They were even more touched when Jollibee started to greet them one by one, do the traditional “mano”, hug and kiss them.
Jollibee entertained the elders of Kanlungan ni Maria with a special dance number.
Lolo gamely posed with Jollibee
Aside from everyone’s favorite langhap-sarap meals, Jollibee also gifted them a chocolate cake to devour from Red Ribbon plus grocery items to be delivered in Kanlungan ni Maria for their daily personal needs.
Red Ribbon cake for the elders
Just when the program was about to end, I spotted one of the staff of KNM giving medicine or maybe vitamins to the elders. It’s great to know that the lolos and lolas there are really well taken cared of. As a proof, even at old age, they all look so neat, fresh and happy.
Time for your medicine lola
I’m mostly amazed and inspired with the attitude of Nanay Pina. She’s very jolly and energetic. You will not trace any sign of loneliness nor discontentment in her eyes. The box she’s holding is her mini-business. She spends most of her time hand sewing those pony tails and sells each for P10.00. My encounter with her made me realize that I should always embrace positivity and enjoy life. No matter what age group you belong, you can make an impact in the society and inspire everyone in your own simple and little way.
Please watch this heartwarming video and see the happy faces of our dear lolos and lolas…
Thank you Jollibee for the special treat to the elders! Thank you for touching our lives!
