Annoyed by neighbor's noise, she later helped raise $80,000 for Parkinson’s care months after meeting her

A difficult first impression

Widmer said she was trying to sleep at 2 a.m. when loud sounds from the apartment above seemed to continue without stopping. She considered asking the neighbor to be quiet, but held back because she had just moved in and did not want to seem difficult.

Two weeks after moving in, Widmer saw Carole coming slowly down the stairs, shaking from Parkinson’s and carrying bags of recycling. Carole thanked her and asked whether she was too loud. Widmer said she realized she had judged Carole based on the noise without knowing her circumstances.

Helping with daily needs

Widmer knocked on Carole’s door two days after they met. She later learned that Carole could live independently but needed some assistance, and was uncomfortable accepting help, particularly from social services.

Over the following weeks and months, Widmer helped take out trash, cook, and clean. She also contacted the landlord about repairs and replacements in the apartment, and the two decorated the space.

A campaign for care

Widmer and Carole made an Amazon wish list, which Widmer shared on social media so people could send needed items directly. Supporters bought various things, including an expensive Buddhist butsudan that Carole had not expected anyone to purchase.

They also started a GoFundMe, which has raised about $80,000. The plan is to use the money to install a stair lift; any funds left over are intended for in-home care as Carole ages and her Parkinson’s progresses.

A close family bond

Widmer said she and Carole now text each day, and she sees her most days. Carole calls Widmer her granddaughter, while Widmer sees Carole as her grandmother. Widmer described their relationship as an unlikely connection and said it grew from choosing kindness over judgment.