Jacqueline is a 90-year-old Meals on Wheels client and longtime resident of Loomis who continues to live independently, sharing her home with three beloved cats and two Muscovy ducks who reside outdoors. When asked how she first came to have the ducks, Jacqueline simply smiled and said she’s had them for so long that the story has been lost to time.
Born in Connecticut, Jacqueline moved to California in her youth and was raised in the Aptos area along the Santa Cruz coastline. A lifelong explorer with a passion for trying new things, she has pursued a wide range of interests over the years. Her experiences include teaching karate to youth, working as a professional seamstress, and expressing her creativity as a painter.
Jacqueline proudly honors her diverse heritage, which includes English, Irish, German, and Lithuanian roots. During her residence in Placer County Jacqueline shared many of those years with her partner, Geoff, whose companionship she cherished deeply.
One of Jacqueline’s greatest strengths is her ability to form lasting friendships. Following a recent fall that resulted in a broken leg, she was never without support. Her good friend Don, a friend of Jacqueline’s son, and a former neighbor named Simone, all stepped in to ensure Jacqueline was cared for during her recovery.
Fiercely independent, Jacqueline refuses to let injury slow her down. While she uses a walker on the lower level of her home, she ingeniously scoots herself up to the second floor each night to transition to bed, determined to maintain her routines and autonomy.
Jacqueline’s joy for life is unmistakable. Her face lights up each time a Meals on Wheels volunteer arrives with her meal, and her warmth and enthusiasm leave a lasting impression. She truly embodies resilience, gratitude, and a zest for living.
Jacqueline began Meals on Wheels in November 2024.
And yes, she is on the animeals program and Charity has provided her with cat food and DUCK food!!
How great is that!
I wish I could have gotten a photo of her with the ducks but they live outside and with her healing broken leg I didn’t want to risk the ducks tripping her.
As I visit folks I’ll send you periodic stories with clients who are willing.
