Plumber Fixes Boiler for 91-Year-Old Terminally Ill Woman and Charges $0 — “Plumbing Should Be Free for Those Who Need It Most”
In a world where good deeds often go unnoticed, one plumber from the UK is capturing hearts across the internet for his mission to bring warmth—not just through pipes and boilers, but through compassion.
James Anderson, a plumber originally from Liverpool, has gone viral for repairing the broken boiler of a 91-year-old terminally ill woman and charging her absolutely nothing. The bill? A heartfelt message that simply read:
“No charge for this lady under any circumstances. We will be available 24 hours to help her and keep her as comfortable as possible.”
But for James, this wasn’t a one-time act of kindness—it’s part of a greater purpose.
James is the founder of Depher (Disabled and Elderly Plumbing and Heating Emergency Response), a community-driven initiative that provides free or heavily discounted plumbing services to elderly people, individuals with disabilities, and those in vulnerable situations.
He believes nobody should have to suffer in silence or cold due to their financial situation or fear of being a burden.
“We need to be a human race, to look out for each other,” James said. “It makes me feel human, humble, and a little giddy inside.”
Though his kind actions have gained him viral internet fame, James remains modest, insisting the work he does is not about him—it’s a community effort.
“I’ve got other plumbers offering help,” he said. “My hope is to get Depher national, in every city and town.”
James’s philosophy is simple: if he’s in a position to help, he will. He says offering free plumbing services brings him a sense of fulfillment money never could.
“Some may wonder what I get out of this,” he explained. “But the truth is—it makes me feel good inside. I will never give up the fight.”
The now-famous receipt that showed $0 charged for the elderly woman’s boiler repair has inspired others across the country—and even around the world. Many are now reaching out to offer support or follow in James’s footsteps.
One such admirer is Bruce Drury, a 63-year-old semi-retired plumber, who shared his own experience:
“Your story about James Anderson was a pleasure to read.
I am 63, also a plumber, and did either a large discount or, if the job took 10 minutes, no charge.
My boss never gave me a problem. He had an ailing parent and truly understood how much our clients appreciated it.”
“So hands up to you, James. You’re setting a great example for fellow plumbers. Our job is extremely hard—and sometimes dangerous—but giving our services to the elderly is something they truly appreciate.”
As James continues his mission, he hopes the attention his story is receiving will help Depher grow and inspire others in the trade to join him in delivering kindness, one act at a time.
Because sometimes, the smallest gesture—like fixing a boiler—can mean the world to someone in need.
