Shepherd resident’s dream comes true

Shepherd of the Valley, knows you’re never too old to dream, which is why the SOV-Poland staff creates Second Wind Dreams with their residents. Second Wind Dreams highlights the positive aspects of aging and is a celebration of the life in our elders. Some dreams are large, while some are simple.

“I would love to see my 84-year-old niece who lives in Pittsburgh,” said 94-year-old Shepherd of the Valley-Poland resident Gert Host when asked for a wish.

Host got her wish when her niece Dorothy, Dorothy’s husband, Edson, her sister, Glennis, and six other family members, including Host’s son, Bill and his wife, Lynette, gathered to celebrate her 95th birthday. Everyone agreed that the highlight was the birthday dinner with two birthday cakes, lots of reminiscing and photos.

Dorothy, Edson and Glennis spent the night in one of SOV-Poland’s two-bedroom condos.

The next morning, Gert joined them as they were treated to a Sunday brunch in the main dining room and more photos.

“I was so surprised and felt so special,” Gert said. “I can’t thank everyone enough for making this wish come true.”

“Making these dreams come true is so much fun,” said Paula Blakeman, SOV-Poland activity director. “We feel such a sense of joy finding ways to make our residents’ dreams come true and look forward to many more to come.”