New shoes, a dress or a book, Aydin Aytekin has been delivering packages in the Woenselse Heide for almost fifteen years. He and his bus have now become such an indispensable part of the Eindhoven neighbourhood that the local residents surprised him with a party. “I always know what to say but in this situation I didn’t know how to react.”
And that surprise was not without reason, because in the eyes of the neighbourhood he is more than a delivery man. “I remember him bringing my Christmas package, but no one was home. Then he walked to Lidl, where my wife works, to give it to my wife,” says a local resident. Resident Jessica Faassen confirms that Aydin always goes the extra mile. “If you’re not there, he will send a message or honk if he has a package for you.”
Because of that commitment, a surprise party was organised for him. “You often see negative remarks about delivery people online but they deserve be put in a positive light for once,” Jessica explains. When Aydin arrived at the party, he was speechless for a moment. “It was really a very special experience.” The delivery man was showered with gifts: a beer package, chocolate and vouchers. “It wasn’t even about the gifts for me, the thought behind it was just very special.”
Aydin was very happy with the surprise party and hopes to continue working in the area until his retirement. “This neighbourhood is very special. I have worked in many neighbourhoods in Eindhoven, but I think this is the best.”
Source: Studio040
For Eindhoven News: Lila Mehrez
