Do you know your neighbor well enough to consider having them move in with you? This was the case for Chris Salvatore and then 85-year-old Norma Cook, two neighbors who lived across the hall from each other.
Salvatore, an actor aged 31 at the time, and Norma had always exchanged friendly greetings when they passed each other, but after officially introducing themselves to one another, their bond grew even deeper.
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When Norma’s health started to deteriorate and she needed a caretaker, Salvatore took it upon himself to offer her a place in his home. This brave, and ultimately life-changing decision meant that Salvatore could provide Norma with the care and companionship she needed in her final days.
When Norma turned 89, her health rapidly deteriorated, and after a stay in the hospital, Salvatore discovered that she wouldn’t be able to return home unless she had consistent care. Without any children or family nearby, he was at a loss. With no other choice, Salvatore created a GoFundMe and began searching for a caretaker.
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However, after evaluating a few caretakers, he concluded that the only option left was for her to go into a facility. Unwilling to let this happen to someone he considered his own grandmother, Salvatore invited Cook to move into his apartment.
Salvatore expressed his joy at being able to offer her such a gift in her last days, saying that he couldn’t fathom the thought of her spending her last days in a hospital, surrounded by strangers and without her pets. With his help, she was able to spend her remaining days at home, in the comfort of a friend.
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“I’m so happy I was able to give her this gift of living her last days at home,” Salvatore told GoFundMe. “I can’t imagine what it’s like to go through the end of your life at a hospital without your friends or pets.”
Salvatore was grateful that he was able to give Cook the gift of living in her own home during her final days. He empathized with the thought of going through the end of your life in a hospital without your loved ones.
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Cook and Salvatore enjoyed their time together as roommates. They watched the news, had conversations, drank Champagne, and ate peanuts. Unfortunately, on February 15, 2017, Cook passed away. Salvatore shared the tragic news on Instagram where he would usually share their adventures.
Salvatore mentioned that Cook regarded him as the grandson she never had.
Salvatore had no obligation to help Cook, but he couldn’t bear the thought of her being alone during her last days in the hospital. What a kind man! Let us know your thoughts about this article in the comment section below.
