BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. – The holidays are marked by traditions and time spent with the family.
However, there are some people who are in need of finding the magic of the season.
On Sunday morning, caregiver Krystal Zamorski began her shift with her client, Amal Schmitz.
However, her visit didn’t focus on household tasks, but to wrap Christmas presents while adding a touch of the holiday spirit.
“I’ve been in recovery with physical therapy for the past year and so when my husband travels, I need help with certain things,” Schmitz said.
The 60-year-old suffered a stroke nearly a year ago and it left her with limited mobility while forcing her to re-learn how to walk and use her left hand.
Zamorski is considered a Santa Senior Helper, an off-shoot of Senior Helpers which is a non-medical in-home care provider. The company helps clients year-round but recognized they also need help outside the scope of housekeeping and transportation.
“Doesn’t everybody enjoy a great Christmas, a little décor? A little company? Someone to help them with those holiday tasks that they need to do?” said Denise Bellinger, owner of two Senior Helpers franchise locations in Michigan. “That’s why we do it.”
Zamorski visits as often as she’s needed by Schmitz.
“I love Christmas. It’s my favorite holiday. I love bringing joy to peoples’ family. I love helping them -- it feels like home to me,” Zamorski said.
While Schmitz is grateful for the extra hands, she’s determined for it to be temporary.
When asked what the first thing she’s going to do upon making a full recovery is, she thought of a vow.
“A 5K,” she said. “I promised my son.”
