VA from Philippines helps struggling elderly American for free
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — A Filipino virtual assistant’s act of kindness has captured the hearts of thousands after he chose to work for free to help a struggling 75-year-old American woman launch her online business.
John Jynell Motilla, a freelancer based in the Philippines, came across a job listing last month offering just $3 per hour-far below the industry standard. The post was from Pauline, a nearly destitute senior living alone with her aging dog in a cramped Texas apartment. Hoping to supplement her meager pension, Pauline sought help setting up an Amazon store.
“She lives in a tiny apartment in Texas, where you can see her bed as soon as you walk in,” Jynell wrote in a Facebook post that has since gone viral, amassing nearly 100,000 reactions.
“She shares her home with her very old dog, who makes a distinct sound that reminds you of its age, and a new puppy. During our meetings, she is always in bed, as it’s the only comfortable place for her to sit.”
Compassion over compensation
Initially, Jynell offered to update Pauline’s Amazon account for $88 a week-just enough to cover his expenses. But as he learned more about her situation, he decided to waive his fee entirely and work for free until the store became profitable.
“The more I understood her struggles, the more I felt compelled to help,” he explained.
Jynell now earns $800 a month from the store he helped build. Pauline, having no one else to manage the business, has even told him she plans to leave the account to him when she passes.
“Hearing that was heartbreaking, as I could see how frail and vulnerable she is,” Jynell admitted.
“This experience taught me that being a virtual assistant is not just about the work; it’s about being human and compassionate towards your clients,” he reflected.
A broader crisis for America’s elderly
Rising living costs and insufficient retirement benefits are forcing many American seniors to keep working. The average monthly Social Security benefit in early 2025 was $1,976, while the average cost of living in Texas is $3,760 per month.
Nearly one in four Americans over 65 remains employed, and many who retire are compelled to return to work due to financial pressures.
Jynell hopes his story will inspire others to show compassion. “Behind every statistic about rising costs and economic struggles, there are real people vulnerable and often overlooked who need kindness and support,” he said.
