The current state of the world and limitations on socialization, especially for the elderly community, has left many people lonely and just wanting someone to talk to. One resident, Mr. Bill from the Phoenix Assisted Care in Cary, North Carolina, had a special request for a pen pal. An image of him asking for a pen pal that loves soccer and is a fan of the beautiful game surfaced the web and caught the attention of USWNT and NC Courage forward Jessica McDonald.
"There must be something about it [soccer] that binds us."
An 81-year-old widower and lifelong football fan - isolated from his family when COVID hit - mentioned he liked soccer as part of a pen pal program. The response... has been magic. @TheNCCourage @ChelseaFCinUSA @USWNT pic.twitter.com/wYY9PDzWUA— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) August 5, 2020
When McDonald was sent the photo of Mr. Bill, she immediately took action and wanted to be a part of the Assisted Care’s pen pal program. At 81, Bill lost his wife and loves women’s soccer because he used to coach girls teams. Coincidentally he is a USWNT and NC Courage fan, which also happens to be the two teams Jessica McDonald has plenty of experience with and made this pen pal connection even more special.
Coming up tonight on @ABC11_WTVD the story of Mr. Bill and the @TheNCCourage @J_Mac1422 pic.twitter.com/ZvTge5Gb4w
— Bridget Condon (@BridgetABC11) August 16, 2020
McDonald surprised Mr. Bill, bringing him his very own North Carolina Courage jersey, a team-signed soccer ball and a player card. Talk about having the best pen pal ever!
McDonald made his day and definitely gave him a life-lasting memory by simply taking a few minutes of her day to talk to him about their common interest, soccer. There is nothing more heartwarming than someone’s day being made and professional athletes using their platforms to connect with their supporters.
A feel good story from @BridgetABC11 to start your morning!https://t.co/VF8t3rA2RC
— NC Courage (@TheNCCourage) August 17, 2020