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For McFadden, home is where the heart is
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.Boardman Shepherd of the Valley resident, Annabelle McFadden (left), was moved when her former bingo buddy, Grace Nannay, handed her a token of appreciation with a card during McFadden’s surprise party Sept. 6.
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Robert McFadden posed with his mother, Annabelle, and his wife, Sue, during his mother’s surprise party at the Phoenix House Senior Living Community Sept. 7.
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Diane Wikos (left), Annabelle McFadden, Sheri Noble and Kathy Fait smiled as they celebrated during Annabell’s surprise party Sept. 7.
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Annabelle McFadden (left) was excited as her granddaughter, Dana Wilkos, greeted her with hugs and kisses during her surprise party at the Phoenix House Senior Living Community Sept. 6.
By EARTHA TERRELL
Boardman Shepherd of the Valley resident Annabelle McFadden got the opportunity she’d been dreaming of, which was to return to her apartment and the place she’s called home for more than a decade at the Phoenix House Senior Living Community.
According to her son, Robert, due to her battle with lung cancer, Annabelle had been unable to leave Boardman Shepherd of the Valley for several months, but finally realized her dream with the help of her neighbors and friends, who surprised her with a party Sept. 7.
“Everyone brought in a different dish and some cooked her favorite foods. I’m surprised so many people came and it’s an honor to be here,” said event coordinator Grace Nannay.
Annabelle was also greeted by a number of her relatives and Shepherd of the Valley employees, who were just as enthusiastic to watch her realize her dream.
“Her dream was to come back home and she wanted to see her friends again and we wanted to make sure that her dream came true. She had no clue that they were throwing her a surprise party,” said Boardman Shepherd of the Valley Activities Director Kim Osborn.
Annabelle smiled and was appreciative that her friends extended such a thoughtful gesture for her.
“I feel wonderful, excited and very happy,” said Annabelle.