September 3, 2025
Meals on Wheels Central Texas neighbor, Scot, has always had a passion for helping those who were sick. After studying medicine and devoting his career to the field, he proudly worked his way up to the surgical unit at the height of his nursing career.
Unfortunately, Scot’s passion for helping patients came to an end when he became sick with an infection affecting the immune system. He retired from healthcare and moved back home to Austin, Texas, where he could manage his health and be close to his aging parents.
Eight years ago, Scot’s health took another turn. He learned he had a rare genetic lung disorder. With his immunocompromised status, Scot’s doctor recommended he limit social contact with others.
During his journey with managing the lung disorder, Scot learned about our meal delivery program for older homebound adults. Scot hopes that by sharing his story, he can raise awareness of how Meals on Wheels Central Texas helps him maintain his independence as an individual navigating health challenges.
How Meals on wheels helps Scot Navigate His Health Challenges
At the time Scot was diagnosed with the rare lung disorder, only 40 people were known to have the condition. When asleep, his condition causes fluid to build up in the lungs, much like with pneumonia.
Each morning, Scot spends the first few hours trying to move the fluid up out of his lungs so he can breathe easier. After this, he does not have much of an appetite. However, his doctor says he must try to maintain his weight to manage his health.
“I don’t get much on food stamps—what I do get runs out before the end of the month—and for a while the groceries were a problem—the food would just spoil,” Scot says.
Scot expresses that Meals on Wheels Central Texas has helped him navigate his health challenges in more than one way. Each business day, volunteers bring nourishment and friendly smiles to his door.
Over the years, he’s learned that he can put his Meals on Wheels meal in his pressure cooker to not only keep the meal hot, but also to sanitize the packaging. He reveals that this creates a wonderful aroma that actually increases his appetite.
Scot appreciates the variety of our nutritious, home-delivered meals. His favorites are the cheese omelet and the stewed tomatoes. He enjoys adding his own spices like garlic or onion powder for flair. “I have a strict thing about welfare,” Scot says, “as long as I receive meals, I will never waste a bite of this food.”
The pressure cooker keeps the meal at a safe to eat temperature throughout the day so he can finish it at his own pace. These meals have helped Scot get the nutrients and calories his body needs.
He shares that being homebound can be an isolating experience. Scot is grateful for the volunteers who come to visit, with friendly smiles and positivity each and every time.
“It’s so wonderful that I’ve gotten to know them. They’re the first face to face interaction that I’ve had in the last eight years that I have been homebound. They are kind people that take time out of their days to help.”
With every knock, Meals on Wheels Central Texas volunteers bring nourishment, company, and peace of mind that help Scot maintain his independence as he ages in place. And they support thousands of other homebound Central Texans that need this care in their own unique way.
Life-Enriching Care Helping Older Central Texans in Need
Our Greater Austin volunteers help us deliver hot, healthy lunches and social connections to more than 3,000 older adults, each business day. We provide More Than A Meal to help empower our homebound neighbors' dignity and independence. Among our many programs, we offer meal delivery, home repair, in-home care and supplemental groceries to support our Central Texas older adult neighbors aging in place.
Whether you give your time, talent, or treasure—know that you make a positive impact for older Central Texans in need. Learn more about our vast array of life-enriching programs today.
A gift of just $12 provides a day’s nourishment and essential services to empower a neighbor aging in place in the comfort of their own home. Click the button below to make a gift that empowers neighbors, just like Scot!