Life has a funny way of bringing what you need your way. If you have any doubts, the story of Jenni Ekletsion and Paul Webb might change your mind.
Paul is an 88-year-old Ohio man living with dementia. He spends a lot of time home alone since the death of his wife. He has very scattered memories of his past these days, a reality he has slowly had to come to terms with. His children were worried about him, but his pride wouldn't allow them to help.
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One day, Paul found the exact help he needed when he ordered an Uber. His driver was Jenni Ekletsion. Jenni emigrated from Ethiopia 20 years ago and decided to start driving for the ride-hailing service to help others and spread the Gospel. Meeting Paul was also a special experience for her.
"When he called for a ride — when he just talk to me by phone — I knew this guy, I'm going to take care of him. Before even, I see him!" Jenni told ABC 6.
"He called me the next day. So I can pick him up, take him wherever he wants to go. So, we start a relationship. I used to come here after work every day to take him out for lunch."
After just a few weeks of spending time together, Jenni decided to quit driving for Uber as her side gig. She also quit her day job, all to work with Paul.
"I used to work from home, but now I completely quit my job to work with Paul. It’s weird, but I like it," she shared.
Jenni saw the opportunity to do something she wasn't able to with her own dad because she'd already emigrated by the time he reached his later years.
"I love my Dad and I didn't do this for my Dad so that's what motivates me to quit my job," she explained.
Jenni spends time with Paul every day. They go out to lunch and take turns paying. They take care of any errands Paul has to do. Once in a while, they have a great, deep conversation.
"A lot of people with a lot of wisdom, they are dying at home alone so the rewarding part is changing his life," Jenni shared.
"Changing his last days. He's 88. You don't deserve to be alone."
Paul's kids, Keith and Melanie, have come to know and love Jenni. They explain how she earned their trust.
"Consistency. She was real. She did what she said she was going to do, and she did it in a way that was genuine," Keith said.
"She's the same. In a world that's ever-changing, rarely will you find someone who does not change. She's the same. To this day, it's mind-blowing."
