Lifeline from Canada

Dear Forum FriendsYesterday I had lunch with still another Phillipina Lady. She is a widow now, her husband died about three years ago. Much too soon and not very old. He was my

client too. After her husband passed away from cancer she would consult with me

occasionally about financial matters. She was left with a small house on which she still has to make mortgage payments and an old car, that forever needed repairs. Last year I advised her to get a small new car. But she was hesitant and did

not buy one. Originally she came to Canada as a nanny. She spoke some English and had worked in Singapure as a nanny when she arrived here 18 years ago. After

two years working as a live-in nanny, looking after small children for a family

she achieved landed immigrant status and could look for a better job. Then she married Ron. There were no children from this marriage. Now she is in her late forties and still nice looking. Her habit was to bring some kind of lunch to my office, when she had her tax return prepared. This time she invited me for lunch.

I agreed on condition, that it would be my treat this time. I forgot to say, that she had also brought me some chocolates as a gift this time. We went to a Greek restaurant for lunch and had a buffet with salads and roasted meats, rice and

potatoes. It was a good lunch. Over lunch she told me some of her story. She took courses and received a diploma that enables her to work for the local Health Unit. (A government agency) Of course the pay is good. She has to make visits to

elderly in their homes and give them nursing assistance. She works independently

and uses her car to get to the various places where her clients live. That is why a car is essential for this job.

Recently she arranged for her niece to come under the nanny program. She has her

come to her house on the girls day off. This girl was trained as a teacher back

home. Now she started on the road up in Canada. Linda told me, that she has helped four children of her sisters to get a good education. This is of course very

important in a poor country like the Phillipines. She provides a life-line for

her family. On the way back from the restaurant, were we had walked in nice sunny and warm spring weather, she proudly showed me her brand new car. A shineyred Toyota. I was happy for her.

At night I told my wife of the outing and she remarked:" Why not write this story for the forum?" So here it is.

Best Wishes, Uncle Ben